Adverse Impact Of Mining On Tribals In Chhatisgarh - In News

Summary

The video script by Drishti IAS discusses the health impacts of pollution due to mining on tribals in Chhattisgarh, India. It covers the study by the National Institute of Research in Tribal Health, revealing increased risks of respiratory infections and undernutrition among the tribes. The script also addresses the National Mineral Policy of 2019, Pradhan Mantri Kalyan Yojana, and the challenges and way forward for sustainable mining practices, emphasizing the need for transparency, environmental protection, and proper rehabilitation of affected communities.

Takeaways

• 😷 The script discusses the health impacts of pollution due to mining on the tribals in Chhattisgarh, highlighting the increased risk of acute respiratory infections and other diseases.
• 🔍 A study commissioned by the Union Environment Ministry and conducted by the National Institute of Research in Tribal Health revealed the health risks faced by the tribal population due to mining activities.
• 📍 The Rajnandgaon district of Chhattisgarh, known for its mineral resources and traditional crafts, is the focus of the study which found higher rates of health issues among the local tribes.
• 🌿 The health survey conducted in the region showed a significant prevalence of acute respiratory infection, undernutrition, and other health conditions among the tribal population.
• 💥 Unregulated and excessive mining can release harmful substances into the environment, causing air and water pollution, and posing risks to both the environment and human health.
• 🏭 The mining sector in India, which contributes to the country's rich mineral resources, faces constitutional and regulatory challenges, including the allocation of mineral rights to state governments.
• 📝 The National Mineral Policy of 2019 aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and better regulation in the mining sector, introducing new terms and policies to encourage private sector involvement.
• 💡 The Pradhan Mantri Kalyan Yojana, launched in 2015, is designed to mitigate the adverse impacts of mining on the environment and the socio-economic conditions of affected communities.
• 🛠 The National Institute of Research in Tribal Health is dedicated to the well-being of tribal populations, conducting health-related studies and coordinating with the government for policy promotion.
• 🚧 The script identifies challenges such as displacement and rehabilitation issues, environmental and health concerns, and administrative problems within the mining sector.
• 🛣️ The way forward includes expediting the clearance process, ensuring transparency in block allocation, implementing stricter mining regulations, and utilizing district mineral funds for infrastructure development.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in this video script?

The main topic of discussion is the health impacts of pollution due to mining on the tribals in Chhattisgarh.

Why is the Raga district of Chhattisgarh significant in the context of this discussion?

The Raga district is significant because it is known for its mining activities which have put the tribal population at an increased risk of health issues such as acute respiratory infection and tuberculosis.

What is the role of the National Institute of Research in Tribal Health (NIRTH) in this context?

NIRTH, a body under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), conducted a study on the health impacts of mining on the tribal population in Raga district, highlighting the increased risk of acute respiratory infections and other health issues.

What are the key findings of the study conducted by NIRTH in Raga district?

The study found that one in five individuals in the Raga district were affected by acute respiratory infection, a rate significantly higher than the rest of Chhattisgarh. It also highlighted issues of undernutrition, chronic energy deficiency, and other health conditions like fever, scabies, hypertension, and anemia.

What is the National Mineral Policy of 2019 and what does it aim to achieve?

The National Mineral Policy of 2019 aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and better regulation in the mining sector. It encourages private sector participation in exploration, mergers and acquisitions of mineral entities, and the creation of dedicated mineral corridors.

What are the environmental and health hazards associated with unregulated mining?

Unregulated mining can release harmful substances into the environment, causing air and water pollution, loss of biodiversity, and soil degradation. It can also lead to health issues such as respiratory disorders, skin diseases, and other diseases related to exposure to pollutants.

What is the significance of the 'Right of First Refusal' in the context of the National Mineral Policy?

The 'Right of First Refusal' clause in the policy allows holders of reconnaissance permits and prospecting licenses to be offered the opportunity to mine an area before it is offered to other parties, thus encouraging exploration and investment in the mining sector.

What is the Pradhan Mantri Kalyan Yojana and its purpose?

The Pradhan Mantri Kalyan Yojana, launched in 2015, is aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of mining on the environment, health, and socio-economic conditions of people residing in mining-affected areas. It is implemented through District Mineral Foundations.

What are the challenges faced by the mining sector in India?

Challenges include displacement and improper rehabilitation of tribal people, environmental pollution, loss of biodiversity, health issues related to mining, administrative issues such as arbitrary allocation of mines, delays in environmental clearances, and judicial interventions leading to long delays and penalties.

What steps can be taken to address the issues related to mining activities?

Steps include expediting the clearance process, ensuring transparency in block allocation, implementing stringent mining regulations, using technology for sustainable mining practices, conducting environmental and social impact assessments, and utilizing the District Mineral Fund for infrastructure development.