Andhra Pradesh introduces lottery system for allotting sand mining leases

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced its much-awaited new sand mining policy. It has decided to do away with the existing system of public auction of sand reaches based on tenders. Instead, a new system of drawing lots for granting the sand leases will be introduced. As with the earlier policy, the new policy too bans inter-state transportation of sand and using machinery for sand mining.

Letters - July 15, 2012

Politics of drought

MoEF clears mining in 36 new sand reaches in Andhra

Letters - May 31, 2012

Focus Rural The interview, “Tribal philosophy can’t be ignored beyond a point” (April 1-15, 2012), is highly relevant in the context of the ongoing conflict between development and tribal philosophy. Mahatma Gandhi was the first pre- and post-Independence politician and social activist to comprehend the importance of rural way of life. He wanted the state to protect it.

Supreme Court refuses to lift stay on sand mining in Andhra Pradesh

The Supreme Court has refused to vacate the stay granted by the Andhra Pradesh High Court on sand mining in the state. While considering a bunch of special leave petitions (SLP) moved by the state government and others, the apex court directed the state government to approach the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to get clearance for sand mining in accordance with the EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment) notification.

Supreme Court asks Jaipur metro authorities to approach environment ministry for mining sand

The Supreme Court has asked the Jaipur Metro Development Authority to take permission from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) if it wants to mine sand for its metro rail project.

Andhra Pradesh High Court firm on not lifting stay on sand mining

Sand slips

Environmental issues figured nowhere in Uttarakhand elections

Though rampant industrialisation is putting the environment at risk in Uttarakhand, the issues surrounding it hardly figured in the state Assembly elections.

Traditional communities can mine sand in coastal areas: MoEF

Traditional communities living near sea coasts can now mine sand, according to a memorandum issued by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) last week. The note, issued to all the district collectors across the country, specifically states that any form of sand mining in coastal areas, including in river beds and estuaries, has to be done manually without mechanised equipment.