Environment ministry exempts mining proposals involving atomic minerals from public consultation

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-09-10 14:30:52 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-10 17:41:40

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The Environment Ministry, under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, has exempted mining proposals involving atomic, critical, and strategic minerals from the mandatory public consultation process. This exemption is under the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020.

Previously, mining projects had to undergo public consultations before commencing operations. This was done to ensure that the projects would have minimal negative impacts on the environment, local communities, and human rights. However, the ministry cited "national security" as the reason for the exemption. A senior government official stated that consultation with the public could lead to the revelation of sensitive information about the minerals involved.

Critics argue that this exemption could lead to environmental degradation and abuse of power. With no public oversight, mining projects can operate with reduced transparency and accountability. Environmentalists suggest that the government should instead formulate a specific consultation process that keeps sensitive information confidential while still allowing stakeholders to voice their concerns.

The ministry's decision underscores the perceived importance of these minerals for the country's economic and military prowess, but it also raises concerns about the potential negative effects on the environment and local communities.

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