Mining Industry in India: Historical Background
Mining industries are the backbone of other industries in India. The
development in the mining sector is very essential for the prosperity
and development of people. It is the mining industry which provides raw
materials to other industries and the power sector of India. The history
of mining dates back to 1774 when the East India Company gave permission
to an English company for mining coal in Raniganj, West Bengal. In 1866,
the first oil well of India was drilled in Digboi.
Indian Mining Industry after Independence
Before independence the mining industry was not so prosperous but it
was after independence that the mining industry saw a rapid growth.
India produces 84 minerals which include 11 metallic, 49 non - metallic,
4 fuel and 20 minor minerals. Indian mining sector produces coal, iron
ore, bauxite, copper, lead, zinc, lignite etc. There are more than 3100
mines located in India. India is the largest producer if mica in the
world and the Indian mining industry provides employment to nearly
1million people. It has almost 16 % share in India's exports. India
ranks third in the production of coal and lignite. It also produces a
major amount of iron ore, bauxite, aluminum etc.
India also has vast reserves of oil and natural gas in Gujarat, Assam
and Bombay High. In order to meet the increase demand for minerals,
several steps have been taken by the Indian government. Public sector
organizations were set up to explore minerals and the state developed
mines for important minerals. The mining industry is progressing at an
annual rate of 5%.
Problems of the Mining Industry
There are many problems before the mining industry which needs to be
solved. Problems such as cheating workers of their dues, corruption,
violation of mine safety laws, unscientific mining, poor working
conditions, inadequate ventilations etc are some of the major problems
which needs to be solved.
