How has been the contribution of mining to economy identified in this chapter?

1. Minerals that usually occur deep inside the earth’s surface do not belong any particular owner but belong to all the people of a country and therefore are to be used in everyone’s interest.

2. At the time of independence, most of the mines were owned and operated by private owners and companies. They used the resources, keeping only profit in mind and in the process also did not care for proper development and safety of the workers.

3. It was in the 1970s that the government took over the mines and the responsibility of circulating, selling and exporting minerals. This step was directly aimed at an equitable distribution of resources without any comprises towards the environment as well as the safety of the workers.

4. It was, however, realised that the government failed to advance its systems by introducing newer technologies. It was then realised that the role of private companies was crucial in this sphere. Consequently, a new National Mineral Policy was announced in 1993 in order to lease mines to private companies. Also, a special royalty mechanism was placed so that government could regulate the mining activities.

5. The new policy gave a boost to the mining industry with the no. of mines, minerals mined as well as the employment in the mining sector has highly increased.