Critiquing the Regulation of Sand Mining in India: The Role of Social Workers

The soaring demand for sand driven by rapid urbanisation, population growth and increased global investment in infrastructure has intensified sand mining activities worldwide, with current extraction rates exceeding natural replenishment. The Government of India has strengthened legislation by amending existing laws and formulating new guidelines to govern sand mining operations. However, sand mining activities, both legal and illegal, have continued unabated, leading to various consequences across the country. The prevailing laws in India appear to be stringent but have failed in effective implementation at the grassroots level. Therefore, illegal and irregular sand extraction operations have continued to occur at an accelerated pace. The observations indicate that regulatory authorities are merely symbolic and ineffective in controlling and monitoring sand mining operations effectively at the community level. Further, the inefficiency of authorities has facilitated indiscriminate and illicit sand mining operations, resulting in significant social, economic and ecological repercussions. Considering these aspects, the present study advocates the use of social work methods, such as community organisation, social work research and social action, to address the issue effectively. Furthermore, it urges local authorities and policymakers to take action by setting up vigilance committees in every community, so that people themselves can monitor sand mining and protect their surroundings more effectively.