UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 89
What is/are the purpose/purposes of 'District Mineral Foundations' in India?
- Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts
- Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations
- Authorizing State Governments to issue licences for mineral exploration
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Correct Option: B
Explanation: District Mineral Foundations under the amended mining law are local trusts to benefit people and areas affected by mining activity, rather than mining-licence authorities.
Statement/Pair-wise Analysis:
Statement/Item 1: Incorrect - Mineral prospecting and exploration are not the DMF’s primary statutory purpose.
Statement/Item 2: Correct - DMF funds are intended for development and welfare in mining-affected areas.
Statement/Item 3: Incorrect - State governments’ mineral licensing powers come from mining law, not authorisation by DMFs.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/item 1.
B: Correct - includes all and only the true statements/items.
C: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/items 1, 3; omits correct statement/item 2.
D: Incorrect - includes incorrect statement/items 1, 3.