Question : EFFECT OF MINING ON ENVIRONMENT

(a) the effect of mining on socio-economic and environmental conditions of the country;

(b) the total area of forest land being used for the purpose of mining in the country, State-wise;

(c) whether the Government has formulated any scheme for the people effected in the area of mining;

(d) if so, the details thereof alongwith the total amount of compensation provided to the effected people;

(e) whether the Government has made any scientific study of its effect on climate change and global warming; and

(f) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF THE STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRIMATI JAYANTHI NATARAJAN)

(a) The Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, mandates prior environmental clearance for various developmental activities including mining projects having lease area of 5 ha and above. During appraisal, the issues on environmental impacts and socio-economic aspects are examined for incorporating the necessary mitigative measures and environmental safeguards to minimize the impact of mining.

(b) A total of 107,197.75ha of forestland have so far been diverted for mining activities in the country. A State-wise breakup is enclosed.

(c)&(d) The Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) of Project Affected Persons (PAPs) including compensation is provided as per the National Policy on Rehabilitation and Resettlement (NPRR) and State Government Rehabilitation Policy by the concerned State Government.

(e) No specific scientific studies have been conducted to assess the impact of mining on climate change and global warming by the Ministry of Environment and Forests.

(g) Does not arise, in view of the reply to part (e) above.