Sand is not only critical for economic development but also provides crucial ecosystem services. Elaborate. In this context, discuss the importance of sustainable sand mining in India. (Answer in 250 words)

I Economic growth

-i- Crucial input for industrial activities

eg Cement industry

-ii- Raw material for manufacturing and refining of metallic ores

eg Bauxite

-iii- Create strong foundation of urban infrastructure

eg Concrete in buildings

II Ecosystem Services

-i- Rivers bed enable the flow of riverine aquatably across regions

eg Srivai bhara, Niamad Bhara of Gange dependent on its banks

-ii- Soil Profile of ash land is build with layers of sand

eg Terrai alluvial region which fosters agricultural activities

-iii- Desert sands determine its ecosystem & biodiversity

eg Cactus plants, Bamboo

Recently, Madhya Pradesh government legalized sand mining to address the menace of illegal sand mafia. This can foster better use of assures of govt.

Importance of Sustainable Sand mining

-i- Short term: Continuous availability of sand for economic & ecosystem needs

-ii- Long-term: Achieve goals of WLUCF under UNCCD

-iii- Control land degradation and desertification

-iv- Address the menace of land mafia

eg Greater Noida mining

-v- Achieve climate goals (SDG 13)

As a developing country, India has a unique responsibility to ensure sustainable growth & achieve 'Pancil Plan' of being a developed country by 2047.

to be ensured