[Answered] Examine the geographical imperatives for India to increase domestic mining. Critically evaluate the role of the private sector in achieving resource security for Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Introduction

India imports over 90% of oil, 95% of copper, and 99% of gold, despite having geological similarities to resource-rich regions like Australia and Africa (USGS 2022). Achieving Atmanirbhar Bharat necessitates tapping domestic mining potential.

Geographical Imperatives for Domestic Mining

1. Favourable Geological Endowment: India lies on the Indian Shield, rich in iron ore, bauxite, copper, gold, coal, and rare earths. Its Precambrian rocks host significant deposits comparable to South America and Africa.
2. Strategic Minerals for New-Age Economy: India holds 6th largest bauxite reserve and substantial coal deposits (BP Energy Outlook 2022). Lithium, cobalt, and rare earths critical for EVs and renewable technologies remain underexplored.
3. Import Dependence vs Potential: Despite having 319 billion tonnes of coal reserves (Ministry of Coal, 2023), India imports ~20% coal demand. Large dormant mines like Kolar Gold Fields and underutilised resources highlight untapped potential.
4. Regional Concentration: Eastern and central states (Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh) form India’s mineral heartland, offering a geographical push for resource-led development.

Role of Private Sector in Resource Security

1. Exploration and Risk-Taking: Globally, small private explorers function like start-ups, spreading risk and driving discoveries (Canada’s junior exploration model). India’s auction-based regime discourages such risk-taking; liberalising private exploration could enhance reserves.
2. Technology Infusion: Private players bring cutting-edge mining technologies like automation, AI-enabled exploration, and eco-friendly extraction. Example: Vedanta Resources in bauxite and zinc has demonstrated efficiency and global competitiveness.
3. Reviving Dormant Assets: Many PSUs underperform (e.g., Hindustan Copper, Hutti Gold Mines). Public-private partnerships (PPPs) could unlock these through capital and modern methods.
4. Level Playing Field: Currently, PSUs receive preferential allocations and fiscal support. Private participation needs transparent, non-discriminatory policy to encourage entrepreneurship in mining.
5. Employment and Inclusive Growth:  Mining sector has a high employment multiplier effect. Domestic mining expansion could generate millions of jobs, reducing rural distress and supporting Viksit Bharat 2047.

Critical Challenges

1. Environmental and Social Costs: Mining-induced displacement (Niyamgiri, Odisha) shows conflict between resource extraction and community rights.
2. Regulatory Bottlenecks: Complex clearance system delays projects; need for self-certification with post-audit accountability.
3. Global Transition: Climate commitments under Paris Agreement require balancing fossil fuel extraction with renewable transition.

Way Forward

1. Adopt National Mineral Exploration Policy 2019 in spirit by allowing small explorers.
2. Create single-window clearance systems with strict audit.
3. Promote green mining technologies to align with sustainability.
4. Strengthen PPPs for dormant asset revival.
5. Establish strategic reserves of critical minerals for national security.

Conclusion

As Amartya Sen noted in Development as Freedom, true progress requires economic capacity alongside social equity. Harnessing India’s rich geology through private sector dynamism can ensure resource security for Atmanirbhar Bharat while sustaining inclusive development.