India: 'Govt should discourage small-scale mining'

He pointed out that sustainable mining was not restricted to just extraction practices, but also included the well-being of the mining community. "Unlike in most western countries, mines in India are not necessarily in remote uninhabited areas; there usually are entire villages and homes close to the mines. It is the onus of mine operators to take care of this community as well, minimize air and noise pollution through the use of better technology," he said. "Mine owners should also take care of their employees and provide them good benefits. Very often, small mines are unable to provide good benefits to workers as well," Sharma pointed out. At present, the government is required to regulate mining leases and monitor environmental impact of mines smaller than 5 hectares.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Govt-should-discourage-small-scale-mining/articleshow/38636097.cms