Offshore Mining: Kerala Assembly Opposes Centre’s Policy
Why in the news
Kerala’s Legislative Assembly unanimously opposed the Centre’s plan for offshore mining along the State’s coast, in a resolution moved by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Key facts
- Offshore mining: taking minerals and precious stones from the seabed; material may be pumped ashore, leaving tailings on the beach.
- Law: Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, amended in 2023.
- The amendment lets the Union Ministry of Mines auction deep-sea mineral blocks and opens strategic minerals to private players.
| Area | Kerala’s concern |
|---|---|
| Environment | Harm to fragile marine ecosystems and biodiversity |
| Livelihood | Falling fish stocks would hit jobs and incomes of fishing families |
| Security | Private control of key resources is a national security risk |
| Federalism | No proper consultation with the State |
Way forward
- Experts warn of lasting ecological effects.
- Kerala wants the move reconsidered and sustainable marine resource management, with livelihoods and ecology placed first.
Exam angle
- Auctioning authority: Union Ministry of Mines.
- Act year and amendment: 2002, amended 2023.