Question

To which State Government the Supreme Court of India ordered the closing of 68 mines operating in marble, dolomite, and limestone mining to protect wildlife in that area?

• A. Jharkhand
• B. Rajasthan
• C. Karnataka
• D. Maharashtra

Hint:

Environmental protection laws often involve the suspension of mining activities in ecologically sensitive regions to protect endangered species and preserve biodiversity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The Supreme Court of India ordered the closure of 68 mines operating in marble, dolomite, and limestone mining in Rajasthan to protect wildlife in the area. This was in response to concerns about the negative environmental impact of these activities on wildlife, particularly in the Sariska Tiger Reserve region.

Answer 2

State Government Involved:
The Supreme Court of India ordered the Rajasthan government to shut down 68 mines operating within a one-kilometre radius of the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Alwar district. This directive, issued on May 15, 2024, aims to protect the critical tiger habitat from the adverse effects of mining activities involving marble, dolomite, and limestone. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Background:
The Sariska Tiger Reserve has faced challenges related to illegal mining since the 1990s. Despite previous court orders, mining activities continued, threatening the reserve's ecosystem. The Supreme Court's recent order reinforces earlier rulings and emphasizes the need for stringent protection measures. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Legal Framework:
The court's decision aligns with provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986, both of which prohibit quarrying near tiger reserves. The ruling mandates the Rajasthan government to formulate a closure plan and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Conclusion:
The Supreme Court's order to the Rajasthan government underscores the importance of preserving wildlife habitats and enforcing environmental laws to safeguard India's rich biodiversity.