Rights Body Raises Concern Over Illegal Coal Trade Along Assam-Arunachal Border
Why in News
A local unit of the International Human Rights Council (IHRC) has alleged large-scale illegal coal extraction and transportation from abandoned Coal India mines located near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border, raising concerns over environmental protection and governance.
Key Highlights
- Allegations point to the existence of an organised network involved in extracting and transporting coal from abandoned mines using multiple vehicles and intermediaries.
- The reported activities have raised questions about the effectiveness of monitoring and enforcement by local authorities in curbing illegal mining operations.
- Besides causing substantial revenue losses to the government, illegal coal mining contributes to deforestation, environmental degradation and safety risks for nearby communities.
- The issue underscores the challenges of regulating mining activities in ecologically fragile border regions where surveillance and enforcement remain inadequate.
- The incident has renewed attention on the need for stronger institutional coordination, stricter enforcement mechanisms and sustainable resource management.
Key Concepts
- Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act)
The primary legislation governing the exploration, regulation and development of mineral resources in India. - Illegal Mining
The extraction, transportation or sale of minerals without statutory approvals, environmental clearances or compliance with mining regulations. - Sustainable Mining
Mining practices that minimise environmental impacts, ensure ecological restoration and promote the welfare of local communities. - Coal India Limited (CIL)
India’s largest public sector coal producer, functioning under the Ministry of Coal and playing a key role in the country’s energy security. - District Mineral Foundation (DMF)
A statutory trust established to utilise mining-related revenues for the socio-economic development and welfare of communities affected by mining activities.