Kota: Hundreds of minor minerals mines, which failed to obtain the NGT-mandated environment clearance (EC) in Kota region were forced to discontinue operations, leaving thousands of labourers without work.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT), vide its order dated January 13, 2015 had directed the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to draft a policy on environmental clearance (EC) for mining leases in cluster for minor minerals, including building stones, gravel, ordinary clay, ordinary sand, among others.