UPSC Mains 2025 GS3 Q17 — Environment, Mining hazards
Mineral resources are fundamental to the country's economy and these are exploited by mining. Why is mining considered an environmental hazard? Explain the remedial measures required to reduce the environmental hazard due to mining. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Why is mining consideredExplain
- Scope keywords
- Mineral resourcesfundamental to the country's economyexploited by miningenvironmental hazardremedial measures
- Implicit sub-parts
- The inherent conflict between economic growth (mining) and ecological sustainability.
- Categorization of hazards into air, water, soil, and biological (biodiversity) impacts.
- Technological vs. Regulatory vs. Community-based remedial interventions.
- Current government policy gaps and global best practices in sustainable mining.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too much time listing minerals and their locations instead of focusing on the 'hazard' aspect.
- Ignoring the specific distinction between 'Open-cast' vs 'Underground' mining impacts.
- Vague remedial measures like 'plant more trees' without mentioning Mine Closure Plans or Fly-ash management.
- Failing to mention the social-environmental nexus, such as the displacement of indigenous communities in mineral-rich belts.
- Dimensions required
- Ecological (Pollution and Biodiversity)Technological (Green Mining/Efficiency)Legal/Regulatory (MMDR Act, EIA)Economic (Circular Economy/Urban Mining)Public Health (Occupational hazards)
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate approximately 40-50 words to the economic importance and the 'hazard' logic. Use 100 words for a detailed breakdown of environmental impacts (air, water, biodiversity). Reserve the final 100 words for multi-layered remedial measures including policy, technology, and reclamation strategies.
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