CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
In a landmark move for the mining sector, the Ministry of Mines in India has, for the first time, conferred seven-star ratings to three exemplary mines in 2025. This recognition highlights exceptional adherence to sustainable mining practices and outstanding performance in environmental and social governance.
Understanding Seven-Star Rating System
The seven-star rating is the highest possible recognition under the Star Rating Scheme launched by the Ministry of Mines. To qualify, a mine must have earned a five-star rating for five consecutive years and undergo a rigorous two-level assessment. This includes a detailed self-evaluation followed by field verification conducted by the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM). The award signifies long-term excellence in responsible mining operations.
Evaluation Criteria
The rating system assesses mines across four main categories:
Environmental impact management
Progressive mine closure and land restoration
Community and social development
Transparency and reporting
To receive a five-star rating, mines must achieve at least 90% in these modules. The seven-star distinction reflects sustained top-tier performance that surpasses standard regulatory compliance, aligned with the Sustainable Development Framework (SDF) under the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2017.
Recipients Of Seven-Star Award And Their Innovations
The three mines honoured with this prestigious rating in 2025 include:
Naokari Limestone Mine (Ultratech Cement)
Noamundi Iron Ore Mine (Tata Steel)
Kammatharu Mine (Sandur Manganese and Iron Ores Ltd.)
Ultratech’s Naokari limestone mine made history as India’s first limestone mine to receive a seven-star rating. It was acknowledged for zero-waste mining and its innovative reuse of lime sludge and paper mill waste, helping extend the operational life of the mine.
Sustainability And Social Empowerment At Core
The Naokari mine also leads in social outreach. Its Dharanya Kanya Scheme trains local women to operate heavy mining machinery, promoting gender inclusion. On the environmental front, the mine features floating solar plants and a waste heat recovery system, significantly reducing carbon emissions and energy usage contributing to both climate goals and local sustainability.
Impact Of Star Rating Programme
Since its inception in 2014-15, the Star Rating system has encouraged accountability and eco-friendly practices within India's mining sector. It has fostered healthy competition among mining companies to exceed regulatory expectations in environmental stewardship and social responsibility. According to the Ministry, this initiative has positively impacted local communities that rely heavily on mining for employment and infrastructure development.
Wider Industry Recognition
During the 2023–24 review cycle, 98 mines received recognition under the scheme, with 95 earning five-star ratings. UltraTech Cement led the way, securing the highest number of five-star ratings across a variety of mineral categories for the second consecutive year. The star rating system includes a broad range of minerals, including iron ore, bauxite, limestone, lead-zinc, and manganese, encouraging excellence across the industry.
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