Sustainable Mining — Prelims Strategy
Prelims Strategy
For Prelims, the strategy for Sustainable Mining should focus on factual recall and conceptual clarity. Key areas to master include: 1. Legal Framework: Remember the core provisions of the MMDR Act, 2015 (DMF, NMET, auction), Forest Rights Act, 2006 (Gram Sabha, FPIC), and Environment Protection Act, 1986 (EIA).
Be clear on which act mandates what. 2. Constitutional Articles: Understand the direct and indirect relevance of Articles 21, 48A, and 51A(g) to environmental protection in mining. 3. Key Concepts & Practices: Familiarize yourself with terms like progressive mine closure, acid mine drainage, beneficiation, dry stacking, and biodiversity offsets.
Know their definitions and significance. 4. Regulatory Bodies: Identify the roles of the Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Coal, CPCB, NGT, and SPCBs. 5. Recent Developments: Stay updated on major policy changes, critical mineral auctions, and significant NGT rulings.
Focus on the 'what' and 'why' of these events. 6. Important Differences: Be able to distinguish between traditional and sustainable mining, and between Environmental Clearance and Forest Clearance.
Practice statement-based MCQs that test your understanding of these concepts and their interlinkages. Pay attention to specific percentages (e.g., DMF contribution) and years of key acts/policies.