What is rat-hole mining? Is it illegal? Explain. How does it hamper the environment? Give a detailed explanation.
Answer: Rat hole mining is a primitive and hazardous method of mining for coal, with tunnels that are only 3-4 feet in diameter (hence, rat-hole), leading to pits ranging from 5-100 sq. mt deep.
Types of Mining
- There are two types of rat-holes: when dug into the ground these are vertical shafts leading to the mines where horizontal tunnels are dug
- The second type is where horizontal holes are dug directly in the hillsides to reach coal seams (bed of coal). The coal is taken out manually, loaded into a bucket or a wheelbarrow and dumped on a nearby ....
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General Studies Mains Questions And Answers
- 1 Digital transformation holds immense potential for bringing about rapid socio-economic development of rural India. Discuss.
- 2 Discuss the contribution of moderates in the Indian freedom movement by describing the various methods adopted by them.
- 3 Give an account of the evolution of the relationship between the British power and the Indian princely states during the British rule, mentioning the key developments.
- 4 Describing the importance of big dams in India, throw light on the problems associated with them. Discuss the efforts made for dam safety in the country.
- 5 Urbanization is a double-edged sword for women. Discuss the challenges faced by women in cities and describe the measures to overcome them.
- 6 What is the Model Code of Conduct? Describe the importance and challenges of Model Code of Conduct.
- 7 Discuss the functions and role of the Election Commission of India. How does the Election Commission ensure free and fair elections in India?
- 8 BIMSTEC is an important organization to strengthen India's position in South-East Asia. Mention the major obstacles to the integration of BIMSTEC.
- 9 India and the US have agreed to move forward in the field of space cooperation. Discuss the limiting factors in the path of space cooperation between the two countries and suggest ways to solve them.
- 10 The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty is considered important to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons; yet India is opposed to this treaty. Explain.
