Consider the following statements regarding the regulation of atomic minerals in India:

1. Atomic minerals are classified as 'strategic minerals' and are regulated by the Atomic Energy Act, 1962.

2. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is responsible for exploration, mining, and processing of atomic minerals in India.

3. Private companies in India are allowed to mine uranium and thorium under government supervision.

4. India has exclusive control over monazite mining, restricting exports due to its high thorium content.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

The correct answer is option 3.

Key Points

• Statement 1 – Correct – The Atomic Energy Act, 1962, classifies uranium, thorium, and other atomic minerals as strategic resources.
• Statement 2 – Correct – The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and its subsidiary, UCIL (Uranium Corporation of India Limited), oversee atomic mineral mining.
• Statement 3 – Incorrect – Private companies are NOT allowed to mine uranium and thorium in India; mining is strictly controlled by the government.
• Statement 4 – Correct – India controls monazite mining and restricts its export to safeguard thorium reserves.
  • Correct Answer: (c) Only three