Ministry of Mines implements sustainable mining for Star rating

The Ministry of Mines has executed sustainable mining by making provisions under Chapter-V of Mineral Conservation and Development Rules (MCDR), 2017. Accordingly, Rule 35 of the MCDR provides a star grade to mining leases depending on the miners' sustainable mining practices. As per the National Mineral Policy 2019, sustainable mining is described as financially viable, socially liable, environmentally, technically, and scientifically useful mining practices with a long-term development perspective. It has optimal use of mineral resources and ensures sustainable post-closure land uses. All miners, including private miners, follow the sustainable mining regulations of Chapter V of the MCDR 2017 and the star grading system designed for lease review. Star rating has been made compulsory under Rule 35(2) of MCDR, 2017, and all mining leaseholders have to submit an online self-assessment report before 1st day of July every year for the last financial year (FY), including the digital images of mining lease area according to the rule 34A of the said rules to the Regional Controller or the authorised officer of the Indian Bureau of Mines. Moreover, according to Rule 35(4) of MCDR, 2017, each holder of a mining lease shall complete at least a three-star rating within four years from the date of the beginning of mining operations and maintain the same on a year-on-year (YoY) basis. Image Source Also read: GSI hands over 15 state govts with 52 mining block reports