UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2019

With reference to the management of minor minerals in India, consider the following statements: 1. Sand is a 'minor mineral' according to the prevailing law in the country. 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. 3. State Governments have the power to frame rules to prevent illegal mining of minor minerals. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 3 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

1 and 3 only

Explanation

Sand is a minor mineral under the MMDR Act, 1957. Under Section 15, State Governments make the rules for regulating grant of concessions for minor minerals and for preventing illegal mining, so statement 2 (rule-making with the Centre) is incorrect while statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Topics: 1957, environment and economy, mining and minerals regulation, minor minerals - sand and state powers, mmdr act