The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 was enacted to provide for the regulation of mines and the development of all minerals other than petroleum and natural gas under the control of the Union. The Act specifically declares that it is expedient in the public interest that the regulation of mines and the development of minerals should be taken under the control of the Union. The Act prevents undertaking of prospecting or mining operations in any area, except under and in accordance with the terms and conditions of a prospecting license or, as the case may be, a mining lease, granted under this Act and the rules made thereunder. According to the provisions of this Act, "Minerals" includes all minerals except minerals oils and "Prospecting Operations" means any operations undertaken for the purpose of exploring, locating or proving mineral deposits. The Act envisages that the Central Government shall be duty bound to take all such steps as may be necessary for the conservation and systematic development of minerals in India and for the protection of environment by preventing or controlling any pollution which may be caused by prospecting or mining operations and make rules for such purposes. Under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, the central government has framed Mineral Concession Rules 1960 and the Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 1988. The Mineral Concession Rules 1960 regulates granting of prospecting licenses and mining leases in respect of all minerals other than atomic minerals and minor minerals. The Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 1988 has set guidelines for ensuring mining on a scientific basis while conserving the environment. The Mines Act, 1952 has amended and consolidated the law relating to the regulation of labour and safety in mines. The health and safety of the workers is governed by the Mines Rules, 1955 which has been formulated under the provision of the Mines Act, 1952.
