Preservation of Ecology

Exploitation of minerals like iron-ore, coal and others does adversely affect wildlife and forest reserves in country. However, to minimize adverse impacts of mining on environment and ecology, permission accorded by the Ministry of Environment & Forests under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 for mining is subject to compliance of appropriate safeguards.

Comprehensive study to assess impact of mining, industrial and other developmental activities on wildlife and forests reserves in the country has not been undertaken by the Ministry. However, to obtain the Environment Clearance under the EIA Notification, 2006 under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, projects, including mining and industrial projects, covered in the Schedule to the EIA Notification 2006 are required to undertake Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) study to assess impact of the project on biological aspects likely to be caused by the project. On the basis of the EIA study, the Ministry of Environment & Forests while according environment clearance stipulates appropriate mitigative measures to minimize adverse impacts of such project to preserve ecology.

This information was given by the Minister of State for Environment and Forests (independent charge) Shrimati Jayanthi Natarajan in a written reply to a question by Shri Sanjay Dhotre and Shri Subhash Bapurao Wankhede in Lok Sabha.