The Supreme Court has prohibited mining operations within a one-kilometer radius of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, emphasizing the potential danger to wildlife. A bench led by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran reviewed petitions concerning the designation of areas within the Saranda Wildlife Sanctuary and the Sasangdaburu Conservation Reserve in Jharkhand as conservation reserves. The court reiterated its longstanding position that mining activities close to protected areas pose significant risks to wildlife. While previous directives were specific to Goa, the bench concluded that a nationwide ban is necessary. Consequently, the court has mandated that mining is not allowed within national parks and wildlife sanctuaries and within one kilometer from their boundaries.
