Prelims 2019 · Polity and Constitution · Question 12
With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements:<br/>1. Sand is a 'minor mineral' according to the prevailing law in the country.<br/>2. State Governments have the power to grant mining leases of minor minerals, but the powers regarding the formation of rules related to the grant of minor minerals lie with the Central Government.<br/>3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals.<br/><br/>Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer
1 and 3 only
1. Correct. Under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, sand is treated as a minor mineral (the Central Government can notify such minerals, and sand is included).
2. Incorrect. For minor minerals, State Governments not only grant leases but also have power under the MMDR Act to make rules regarding grant of quarry leases, mining leases, and other concessions.
3. Correct. Section 23C of the MMDR Act empowers State Governments to frame rules to prevent illegal mining, transportation, and storage of minor minerals.
Hence, statements 1 and 3 only are correct.