Construction Industry News
The Ministry of Mines has achieved sustainable mining by making provisions under Chapter V of the Mineral Conservation and Development Regulations (MCDR), 2017.
Accordingly, Rule 35 of the MCDR provides a star rating for mining leases, depending on the miners' sustainable mining practices.
According to the 2019 National Mineral Policy, sustainable mining is described as financially viable, socially responsible, environmentally, technically and scientifically viable mining practices with a long-term development perspective.
It makes optimal use of mineral resources and ensures sustainable land use after closure.
All miners, including private miners, follow the sustainable mining rules of Chapter V of the MCDR 2017 and the star rating system designed for lease assessment.
Star rating is mandated under Rule 35(2) of MCDR, 2017, and all mining tenants must submit an online self-assessment report for the latest financial year (FY) by July 1 each year, including the digital images of the mining lease area under Rule 34A of the said rules to the Regional Controller or the appropriate officer of the Indian Bureau of Mines.
In addition, according to Rule 35(4) of MCDR, 2017, each mining lease holder must achieve at least three stars within four years from the date of commencement of mining operations and maintain them for one year (on an annual basis).
