“In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for development”. Discuss.

Theme

T35 Minerals & mining: resource vs environment

What UPSC asks in this theme

Cross-paper: GS1 asks about mineral distribution (Gondwana, Deccan trap) and why mining's GDP share is low; GS3 asks why mining is an environmental hazard, illegal mining and go/no-go zones.

What to cover

• Gondwana coal, Dharwar metallic minerals, Deccan trap resources
• Low GDP share: regulation, exploration gaps, technology, land issues
• Environmental impacts: deforestation, water, air, displacement
• Illegal mining, go/no-go zones, MMDR reforms, District Mineral Foundation

Writing the answer

• Balance development needs with environmental costs
• Use specific mining regions as examples

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 5 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.