Minerals are naturally occurring substances with unique chemical compositions and crystalline structures found in the Earth's crust.

Distribution of Minerals in India

• Minerals are distributed unevenly on the earth's surface.
• All minerals are exhaustible in nature and will deplete over time.
• While minerals take a long time to form, they cannot be replenished immediately when needed.

• Over 97% of coal reserves are found in the valleys of Damodar, Sone, Mahanadi, and Godavari rivers.
• India's domestic coal reserves have a high ash content of 40-45%.
• Most coal-based power plants lack flue-gas desulphurization technology, contributing to air pollution. Coal burning releases particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and mercury.

• Petroleum reserves are located in the sedimentary basins of Assam, Gujarat, and Mumbai High (off-shore region in the Arabian Sea).
• New petroleum reserves are also found in the Krishna-Godavari and Kaveri basins.

Mineral Belts in India 

Distribution of Key Mineral Resources in India

Scope of the Mining Sector in India

• Mining Operations: Mineral belts are hotspots for the extraction of resources like coal, iron ore, and limestone.
• Industrial Development: These mineral deposits drive industrial growth, especially in sectors like steel and power generation.
• Employment: Mining in these areas creates jobs, boosting local economies.
• Revenue: Mineral extraction provides government revenue through royalties and taxes, supporting public infrastructure and welfare.
• Infrastructure: Efficient transportation and regional growth necessitate infrastructure development in mineral belts.
• Research: Mineral belts offer research opportunities for the discovery and assessment of deposits, expanding the mining sector.
• Sustainability: These belts can uphold sustainable mining practices, promoting environmental protection and social responsibility. 

Challenges of the Mining Sector in India

• Environmental Concerns: Balancing mineral extraction with sustainable environmental practices is a challenge due to potential impacts such as deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction.
• Regulatory Framework: Complex regulations and legal requirements pose challenges for mining companies due to the intricate regulatory framework governing the mining sector in India.
• Land Acquisition and Community Displacement: Acquiring land and managing community displacement present challenges for mining companies, necessitating careful planning, consent, and rehabilitation measures.
• Infrastructure Development: It creates logistical and operational challenges for developing transportation networks and power supply crucial for efficient mineral extraction and processing.
• Technological Advancements: The availability and adoption of modern technologies pose challenges for smaller mining companies and remote areas in maximizing mineral extraction, minimizing environmental impacts, and adopting advanced mining technologies and equipment. 

Way Forward

• Sustainable Mining Practices: Promote responsible techniques, advanced technologies, and community engagement.
• Strengthen Regulatory Framework: Streamline regulations, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure effective monitoring.
• Community Engagement and Consent: Involve local communities in decision-making and obtain their consent.
• Infrastructure Development: Prioritize infrastructure investment for transportation, power, and water management.
• Research and Development: Encourage collaboration and innovation for sustainable mining practices.
• Capacity Building and Skill Development: Invest in training to enhance skills and promote responsible mining.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster dialogue among government, companies, communities, and environmental organizations.