DIMAPUR: Directorate of Geology & Mining, Nagaland organised a community awareness programme on sustainable mining practices of minor minerals at Chümoukedima Town Council Hall on May 8.
According to a press note issued by the department, the programme was attended by village council members, head GBs, GBs, town council members, mining stakeholders, public organisations and community representatives from Dimapur and Chümoukedima districts. The programme began with registration of participants, followed by a welcome address. The department highlighted that the objective of the programme was to create awareness on sustainable mining practices, environmental protection and compliance with the Nagaland Minor Mineral Concession Rules. Delivering the keynote address, director of Geology & Mining Asingbow Newmai stressed the need for responsible and regulated extraction of minor minerals, particularly riverbed materials, to prevent environmental degradation and protect river ecosystems. He called upon village councils, community leaders and stakeholders to cooperate with the government in curbing illegal and unsustainable mining activities.
During the programme, a PowerPoint presentation highlighted the environmental impacts of indiscriminate riverbed mining, including riverbank erosion, increased water turbidity, destruction of aquatic habitats and damage to infrastructure caused by alteration of river flow.
The department also emphasised the role of communities in protecting natural resources by monitoring illegal mining activities, ensuring compliance with mining regulations and promoting sustainable practices within their respective jurisdictions. A short documentary on the impacts of unregulated riverbed mining was also screened for the participants.
The programme concluded with an interactive session where participants shared their concerns and views regarding riverbed mining activities in their respective areas. The department expressed hope that the programme would strengthen cooperation between the government, local institutions and communities towards sustainable management of minor minerals in the state.
