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Subject: Economics

  • [pib] Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme 1.1

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister for Steel and Heavy Industries has inaugurated the second round of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel, termed PLI Scheme 1.1.

    About the PLI Scheme 1.1

    • It is built upon the earlier round of the PLI scheme to enhance domestic manufacturing of high-value steel, reduce imports, and boost India’s global steel market position.
    • 5 specialty steel categories are considered:
      1. Coated/Plated Steel Products for appliances, construction, and automotive sectors.
      2. High Strength/Wear-Resistant Steel for infrastructure, mining, and heavy machinery.
      3. Specialty Rails for railways and metros.
      4. Alloy Steel Products and Steel Wires for industrial uses.
      5. Electrical Steel (CRGO and others): Cold-Rolled Grain-Oriented Steel, essential for power transformers and electrical applications.
    • It covers production from FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30 and operates within the original budget of ₹6,322 crore.
    • Changes introduced in PLI Scheme 1.1:
      • Investment and capacity thresholds reduced:
        • For CRGO Steel: Investment threshold lowered to ₹3,000 crore; capacity threshold to 50,000 tonnes.
        • Encourages CRGO production as a strategic priority under Atmanirbharta.
      • Carry-forward provision: Excess production in one year can offset shortfalls in another, ensuring optimal incentive distribution.
      • Companies investing in capacity augmentation can participate; thresholds reduced to 50% of original requirements.
      • Simplified guidelines: Revised to improve accessibility and encourage industry participation.

    Bakc2Basics: PLI Schemes 1.0 and 2.0

    PLI Scheme 1.0

    • Launched in March 2020, it aimed to boost domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, and create jobs in key sectors.
    • Initially focused on three industries (mobile manufacturing, electrical components, and medical devices) but later expanded to 14 sectors, including electronics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.
    • Provided 1%–4% incentives on incremental sales over the base year, with a ₹7,350 crore outlay for IT hardware.
    • Had an estimated investment target of ₹2,500 crore (IT hardware) but did not specify details on job creation.
    • Served as a cornerstone for Atmanirbhar Bharat, promoting self-reliance and innovation in India’s manufacturing ecosystem.

    PLI Scheme 2.0

    • Launched in May 2023, it specifically focuses on IT hardware (laptops, tablets, servers, PCs) to enhance global competitiveness.
    • Comes with a higher budget of ₹17,000 crore (for IT hardware) over a 6-year duration.
    • Incentivizes local manufacturing with ~5% incentives on incremental sales, alongside additional benefits for components like memory modules and SSDs.
    • Targets ₹2,430 crore in investment, ₹3.35 lakh crore in production, and $12–17 billion in exports by 2025–26.
    • Seeks to create 75,000 direct jobs and up to 2 lakh indirect jobs, offering different incentive caps for global, hybrid, and domestic companies.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider, the following statements:

    Statement-I: India accounts for 3.2% of global export of goods.

    Statement-II: Many local companies and some foreign companies operating in India have taken advantage of India’s ‘Production-linked Incentive’ scheme.

    Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

    (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

    (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

    (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

    (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

  • [pib] National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has inaugurated the 8th edition of the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP) emphasizing India’s goal to enhance organic farming and achieve ₹20,000 crore in organic exports within the next 3 years.

    About the National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP):

    Details
    About
    • Launched in 2001.
    • Implemented by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Ministry of Commerce & Industries.
    • Focuses on accreditation, organic production standards, and promoting organic farming.
    • Enhances India’s global competitiveness in organic farming and supports eco-friendly and viable practices.
    Features of the 8th Edition
    • Recognition for Organic Grower Groups: Simplified certification requirements for grower groups, granting them legal status and replacing the Internal Control System (ICS), a previous quality assurance system for group certification.
    • NPOP Portal: Provides visibility and streamlines operations for organic stakeholders.
    • Organic Promotion Portal: Connects farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and exporters with global buyers, offering trade leads, training, and events.
    • TraceNet 2.0: Upgraded system ensuring farm-to-market transparency, traceability, and compliance with global standards.
    • AgriXchange Portal: Facilitates data analysis and connects international buyers and sellers to strengthen India’s position in the global organic market.
    • 6. Technological Advancements: Boosts organic farming operations through innovative systems and tools, enhancing India’s organic production ecosystem.
    Significance
    • Sets standards for organic production and accreditation, recognized by the European Commission and Switzerland, enabling acceptance of Indian organic products internationally.
    • Facilitates India’s integration into the global organic market.

     

    Do you know?

    • India ranks 2nd globally in terms of organic agricultural land.
    • Sikkim is the world’s first fully organic state, and North East India has a tradition of organic farming with minimal chemical use.
    • India has the highest number of organic producers worldwide, with 2.3 million farmers.
    • By 2023-24, approximately 4.5 million hectares (2.5% of total agricultural land) were under organic certification.
    • Madhya Pradesh (26%), Maharashtra (22%), Gujarat (15%), and Rajasthan (13%) together contribute 76% of India’s total organic farming area.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] How is permaculture farming different from conventional chemical farming?

    1. Permaculture farming discourages mono-cultural practices but in conventional chemical farming, monoculture practices are predominant.
    2. Conventional chemical farming can cause an increase in soil salinity but the occurrence of such phenomenon is not observed in permaculture farming.
    3. Conventional chemical farming is easily possible in semi-arid regions but permaculture farming is not so easily possible in such regions.
    4. Practice of mulching is very important in permaculture farming but not necessarily so in conventional chemical farming.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 3
    (b) 1, 2 and 4
    (c) 4 only
    (d) 2 and 3

  • India needs to be a global champion in sunrise sectors

    Why in the News?

    India must lead in emerging industries to become a developed nation and a USD 32 trillion economy by 2047. Niti Ayoge CEO stressed the need to produce solar panels and electric vehicles.

    What are the Sunrise sectors?

    • Sunrise sectors refer to rapidly growing industries that are in their early stages but have high potential for expansion. These sectors attract significant venture capital and are appealing for long-term growth prospects.
    • Niti Aayog CEO believes that excelling in these sectors is crucial for India to meet its ambitious economic targets by 2047.

    Key Sunrise Sectors: 

    • Electric Vehicles (EVs): With initiatives like FAME II, India aims to boost EV manufacturing and infrastructure. The sector is expected to grow significantly, contributing to sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
    • Electronics and Semiconductors: The semiconductor market in India is projected to triple by 2026, driven by government incentives and initiatives like the PLI Scheme. This sector is vital for establishing India as a global manufacturing hub.
    • Renewable Energy: India is focusing on renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, where it currently lags behind globally by 5-7 years in manufacturing capabilities.
    • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced tech: It will drive innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.

    What are the potential impacts?

    • Economic Growth: By investing in sunrise sectors, India can drive economic growth through innovation, job creation, and industrial development. This can help bridge the gap to becoming a global economic power.
    • Sustainability: These sectors align with global sustainability goals, helping India reduce dependency on fossil fuels and transition to cleaner, more renewable energy sources, ultimately aiding in climate change mitigation.
    • Global Competitiveness: Being a leader in sunrise sectors, such as electric vehicles or solar panel manufacturing, can position India as a global hub for cutting-edge technology and innovation.

    What are the challenges faced by the Sunrise Sectors in India?

    • Technological Gap: Indian industries are lagging in areas like solar panel manufacturing and electric vehicles, often 5-7 years behind global leaders. This technological gap hinders competitiveness and innovation. Example: India has not fully capitalized on the growing electric vehicle market, which is dominated by countries like China.
    • Infrastructure and Investment Deficits: India’s current infrastructure does not fully support the rapid scaling of sunrise sectors. Additionally, private credit to GDP in India is lower compared to global giants like the US and China, affecting the ability of industries to scale up. Example: Limited investments in research, development, and infrastructure for clean technology and manufacturing.
    • Policy and Regulatory Bottlenecks: India’s policy frameworks for clean technology and green industries often lack the depth and support required for aggressive global competition. There is a need for more incentives, clear regulatory guidelines, and quicker approvals for new technologies.

    Way forward: 

    • Increased Investment in Research and Development: India must invest heavily in R&D for sunrise sectors, particularly in clean technologies and electric vehicle manufacturing. Government-backed initiatives and partnerships with global players can help bridge technological gaps.
    • Policy Support and Incentives: India should provide stronger policy frameworks, such as tax incentives, subsidies for clean tech investments, and faster clearances for new ventures in sunrise sectors. More investment in infrastructure, particularly for electric vehicle charging stations and renewable energy grids, is crucial.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

  • [pib] Release of National Livestock Mission Operational Guidelines 2.0

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying has released operational guidelines 2.0 for National Livestock Mission (NLM).

    What are the new operational guidelines 2.0 for NLM?

    • It focuses on promoting entrepreneurship, cluster-based development, and sustainable practices in the livestock sector.
    • They emphasize financial assistance through schemes like the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF), capacity building, and modern technologies.
    • The launch of the NLM-EDP Dashboard ensures real-time monitoring and transparency.
    • Priority is given to poultry, dairy, and marginalized groups to drive equitable growth.

    About National Livestock Mission (NLM): Summary Table

    Details
    About
    • Launched in 2014-15, realigned in 2021-22 under the White Revolution – Rashtriya Pashudhan Vikas Yojana.
    • Aims to enhance livestock production quantity and quality while fostering entrepreneurship.
    • Overseen by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Comprises 3 sub-missions: (1) Breed Improvement of Livestock and Poultry, (2) Feed and Fodder Development, and (3) Innovation and Extension.
    • Focus on entrepreneurship through financial incentives for individuals, FPOs, SHGs, cooperatives, and startups.
    • Includes 10 activities, such as fodder cultivation and livestock insurance, emphasizing sustainable practices and stakeholder support.
    Features
    • Entrepreneurship Support: 50% subsidy (up to ₹50 lakh) for horse, donkey, mule, and camel conservation.
    • Fodder Seed Processing: Infrastructure eligible for 50% subsidy for private entities and cooperatives.
    • Fodder Cultivation: Assistance to state governments for growing fodder in degraded and non-arable lands.
    • Livestock Insurance: Reduced farmer premiums (15%), expanded animal coverage, and enhanced Centre-State funding (60:40 or 90:10).

    What is the Status of Livestock Sector in India?

    • The livestock sector grew at a CAGR of 7.9% from 2014-15 to 2020-21
    • Contribution to Agricultural GDP increased from 24.3% in 2014-15 to 30.1% in 2020-21
    • Contributes 4.35% to the national GDP in fiscal year 2022-23
    • Total livestock population: Approximately 536.76 million animals
    • Population growth: 4.8% increase since 2012
    • Global Livestock Ownership Highlights:
      • 12.50% of world’s cattle population
      • 56.70% of world’s buffalo population
      • World’s second-largest poultry market
    • Major Schemes and Programmes:
      • Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): Launched in December 2014 for breed development
      • National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Focuses on controlling Foot & Mouth Disease and Brucellosis
      • Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): Approved 116 projects worth INR 3,731.4 crore

    PYQ:

    [2012] Which of the following is the chief characteristic of ‘mixed farming’?

    (a) Cultivation of both cash crops and food crops

    (b) Cultivation of two or more crops in the same field

    (c) Rearing of animals and cultivation of crops together

    (d) None of the above

  • Centre reconstitutes Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Why in the news?

    The Government of India has reconstituted the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) to include new members, reflecting recent appointments in key administrative positions.

    About the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC)

    Details
    About
    • Governing body of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), under the direct charge of the Prime Minister of India.
    • Established on 3 August 1948 under the Department of Scientific Research; reconstituted as “Atomic Energy Commission of India” on 1 March 1954 with enhanced powers and autonomy.
    • First Chairperson: Homi J. Bhabha (1948–1966).
    • Headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
    Functions
    • Organize research in atomic science and train atomic scientists within the country.
    • Promote nuclear research through its own laboratories and provide financial assistance to autonomous institutes engaged in nuclear research.
    • Undertake prospecting and extraction of atomic minerals for industrial use.
    • Enabled significant achievements, such as India’s first underground nuclear test at Pokhran, Rajasthan on 18 May 1974.
    Structural Mandate
    • Membership includes a Chairperson, scientists, policymakers, and other experts appointed by the government to guide strategic direction and decision-making.
    • Provides recommendations on nuclear energy policies, oversees India’s nuclear energy program, and ensures compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
    • Collaborates with international organizations for peaceful nuclear energy development and security.

    Operates 6 key research centers:

    1. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai.
    2. Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu.
    3. Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
    4. Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC), Kolkata, West Bengal.
    5. Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD), Hyderabad, Telangana.
    6. Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP), Bahadurgarh, Haryana.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.

  • [pib] Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister of Commerce & Industry has unveiled the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform at the Bharat Climate Forum 2025 in New Delhi.

    What is the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform?

    • It is an initiative aimed at strengthening cleantech value chains in sectors such as solar, wind, hydrogen, and battery storage.
    • It aims to position India as a global leader in sustainability and cleantech manufacturing, creating a compelling business case for international investors.
    • Key features include:
      • Provides a platform for manufacturing scale-up and knowledge sharing.
      • Aims to make India a compelling business destination for cleantech investors.
      • Supports India’s target of 500 GW of clean energy capacity by 2030.

    About the Bharat Climate Forum 2025

    • The Forum was organized in New Delhi as a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss climate action and clean energy solutions.
    • The forum aims to align India’s clean energy initiatives with global climate goals, particularly under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement.
    • A key focus of the forum was the launch of the Bharat Cleantech Manufacturing Platform, designed to promote sustainable development and clean energy adoption in India.
    • Discussions emphasized India’s commitment to achieving 500 GW of clean energy capacity by 2030 and highlighted the progress India has made in meeting its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
    • The forum celebrated India’s early achievement of its 2022 renewable energy targets, with renewable energy capacity reaching 200 GW eight years ahead of schedule.
    • The event focused on the 3S principles—Speed, Scale, and Skill—as cornerstones of India’s renewable energy program, ensuring swift implementation, large-scale adoption, and skill development.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our government for this purpose? 

  • National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS) is launched

    Why in the News?

    The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways (MoPSW), has introduced the National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS), a landmark initiative aimed at ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable navigation along India’s inland waterways.

    About National River Traffic and Navigation System (NRT&NS)

    • The NRT&NS aims to modernize and enhance the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of inland water transport.
    • It leverages real-time data and technology to optimize navigation on India’s National Waterways, supporting eco-friendly and cost-effective transport for goods and passengers.
    • Key Features:
      • Real-time monitoring using GPS and GIS for safe vessel navigation.
      • Centralized traffic control centers for efficient operations.
      • Digital platforms for route planning, cargo tracking, and alerts.
      • Integrated infrastructure to streamline operations and reduce delays.
      • Focus on sustainability, economic growth, and capacity building in the inland water transport sector.
    • The system is being deployed across India’s National Waterways, including:
      • NW 1 (River Ganga): Key cargo routes from Haldia to Varanasi.
      • NW 2 (River Brahmaputra): Major transport corridor in the Northeast.
      • NW 3 (West Coast Canal, Champakara Canal, and Udyogmandal Canal), NW 4 (Krishna and Godavari), and NW 5 (Mahanadi rivers and its tributaries): Supporting regional trade and tourism.

    Status of Inland Waterways in India

    • India has a vast network of 14,500 km of navigable waterways, including 111 declared National Waterways (NWs) under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Increase in Operational Waterways: The number of operational NWs has increased by 767% since 2014.
      • Cargo Traffic Growth: Cargo traffic rose from 18 million tonnes in 2013-14 to 133 million tonnes in 2023-24, achieving a CAGR of over 22%.
      • Infrastructure Investments: Investments in NW development increased by 233% post-2014, supported by projects like:
        • Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): Focused on NW 1 (Ganga).
        • Arth Ganga: Empowering local communities through economic activities along NW 1.
      • Tourism Growth: River cruise tourism expanded significantly, with 25 cruise vessels operational in 2023-24, up from 3 in 2013-14.
      • Challenges: Despite this, the share of IWT in India’s overall transport mix remains relatively low compared to global standards.

    PYQ:

    [2016] Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India.

  • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme Versions 1.0 vs 2.0 Comparison

    PLI 1.0

    PLI 2.0
    Launch Year March 2020 May 2023
    Objective Promote domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, create jobs Enhance IT hardware manufacturing, increase global competitiveness
    Budget ₹7,350 crore (for IT hardware) ₹17,000 crore (for IT hardware)
    Duration 4 years 6 years
    Incentive Structure 1% – 4% of incremental sales over the base year ~5% of incremental sales over six years
    Sectors Covered
    • Initially focused on 3 sectors: Mobile manufacturing, electrical components, and medical devices.
    • Later expanded to 14 sectors, including: Specified electronic components, critical key starting materials (pharma), auto components, pharma drugs, specialty steel, telecom and networking, electronics/technology products, white goods (ACs, LEDs), food products, textiles (MMF/technical textiles), high-efficiency solar PV modules, advanced chemistry cell (ACC) batteries, drones
    		 Primarily IT hardware (laptops, tablets, servers, PCs)
    Component Incentives No additional incentives for specific components Additional incentives for local component manufacturing (e.g., memory modules, SSDs)
    Expected Investment ₹2,500 crore (estimated) ₹2,430 crore (estimated)
    Employment Generation Not specified in detail 75,000 direct jobs, up to 2 lakh indirect jobs
    Production and Export Targets Not explicitly stated ₹3.35 lakh crore production; $12-17 billion exports by 2025-26
    Eligibility and Caps Domestic companies with minimum investment of ₹20 crore Global, hybrid, and domestic companies with caps (₹4,500 crore for global, ₹2,250 crore for hybrid, ₹500 crore for domestic)

     

  • WEF released Future of Jobs Report, 2025

    Why in the News?

    According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025, global macro trends, including technological advancements, demographic shifts, and the green transition, will create 170 million new jobs by 2030.

    About the Future of Jobs Report, 2025

    • It is based on insights gathered from over 1,000 leading global companies, collectively representing 14 million workers across 22 industry sectors and 55 economies worldwide.
    • It provides critical insights into emerging and declining job roles, skills trends, and the overall impact of global changes on the labour market.

    What are the key findings of the report?

    • The report projects 170 million new jobs globally by 2030, with a net increase of 78 million jobs after accounting for 92 million displaced roles.
    • Fast-growing roles include AI and machine learning specialists, big data experts, FinTech engineers, and farmworkers, driven by technological advancements and the green transition.
    • Clerical jobs like data entry clerks and cashiers are declining due to automation.
    • Employers anticipate 39% of skills will change by 2030, with growing demand for AI proficiency, creative thinking, and resilience.
    • Businesses are focusing on reskilling, with 85% investing in upskilling programs.
    • Collaboration among governments, academia, and industries is vital to bridge the skills gap and align with future job demands.

    About World Economic Forum (WEF):

    • The WEF is an international NGO for Public-Private Cooperation.
    • It was established in January 1971 by German engineer and economist Klaus Schwab.
    • Important reports published by WEF include: Global Competitiveness Report, Global Risks Report, Global Gender Gap Report, Global Social Mobility Report, Energy Transition Index, and Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report, among others.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the:

    (a) International Monetary Fund

    (b) United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

    (c) World Economic Forum

    (d) World Bank

  • Several workers stuck in a coal mine in Assam

    Why in the News?

    Recently nine workers were trapped in an illegal coal mine in Assam’s Dima Hasao district.

    What is Rat Hole Mining?

    • Rat hole mining is a form of illegal mining prevalent in northeastern India, particularly in Assam. It involves creating small tunnels or “rat holes” to extract coal, typically done by hand without proper safety measures or regulations.
    • This method is dangerous due to its unregulated nature, leading to frequent accidents, including flooding and collapses.
    • The mines are often poorly ventilated and can be highly unstable.

    What are the Current Laws and Regulations Related to Mining in India?

    • Constitutional Provisions: Mining and minerals are listed under both the Union List and State List in Schedule VII of the Constitution, granting regulatory powers to both the Central and State governments.
    • Key Legislations: Major laws governing mining include the MMDR Act, 1957 for regulation and development, the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 for coal management, the Environment Protection Act, 1986 for environmental clearances, and the Mines Act, 1952 for miners’ safety and welfare.
    • Regulatory Bodies: The Ministry of Coal formulates coal policies, the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) enforces safety standards, and State Mining Departments manage state-level operations.
    • Supreme Court Directives: The Supreme Court banned rat-hole mining in Meghalaya in 2014, emphasizing the need for environmental clearances and the adoption of scientific and sustainable mining practices.

    What are the present Issues with Rat-Hole Mining?

    • Safety Concerns: The lack of safety measures in rat hole mining poses significant risks to miners. Accidents are common, as evidenced by the recent tragedy in Assam where miners were trapped due to flooding caused by inadequate infrastructure.
    • Environmental Impact: Rat hole mining contributes to severe environmental degradation, including deforestation and soil erosion. The unregulated extraction of minerals disrupts local ecosystems.
    • Regulatory Failures: There are systemic failures in enforcing mining laws. Opposition parties have criticized the government for allowing illegal mining activities to flourish, suggesting collusion between officials and miners. This has raised questions about accountability and governance in the region.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Enforcement and Regulation: Ensure strict implementation of existing mining laws to conduct regular inspections, and establish accountability for illegal mining activities through penalties and prosecution of violators.
    • Promote Sustainable Livelihoods: Develop alternative livelihood opportunities for communities dependent on rat-hole mining, along with awareness campaigns on environmental and safety concerns, to reduce reliance on illegal mining practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (UPSC IAS/2019)