Uranium Mining Conflict in Meghalaya
Economy · Thursday, 27 August 2026
The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution opposing uranium mining and ore-processing in the state, citing environmental and tribal land rights concerns. Meghalaya holds 16% of India's uranium reserves, but customary practices under the Sixth Schedule have halted extraction since the 1990s.
Quick highlights
- Meghalaya has an estimated 9.22 million tonnes of uranium, mainly in South West Khasi Hills.
- Community protests led to the revocation of UCIL exploration permissions in 2016.
- The state's land-tenure system involves community/clan ownership protected by the Sixth Schedule.
- A 2019 Supreme Court judgment recognized private/community rights over minerals in Meghalaya.
- Local fears center on radioactive contamination and its impact on soil and public health.
Context
The Meghalaya Assembly's resolution reinforces decades of community opposition to extraction in regions like Domiasiat and Wahkaji. This move comes at a time when India is looking to expand its indigenous nuclear fuel cycle.
Key Facts
Meghalaya's deposits are among India's high-grade uranium reserves. Unlike most states, land here is controlled by tribal customs rather than the state government, a right protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
Significance
The resolution affects India's Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme by limiting domestic fuel availability, forcing continued reliance on imported uranium (yellowcake).
Challenges / Way Forward
The primary challenge is balancing federal strategic needs with local consent and environmental safety. The way forward requires a consultative framework that addresses radiation safety concerns.
Exam Angle
GS Paper II: Sixth Schedule, Tribal Rights, Federalism. GS Paper III: Energy Security, Mineral Resources.
Remember this
- Meghalaya accounts for roughly 16% of India’s uranium reserves.
- Key sites: Domiasiat, Lostoin, Mawthabah, and Wahkaji.
- The UCIL (Uranium Corporation of India Ltd) is the nodal agency for mining.
- The Sixth Schedule provides for Autonomous District Councils (ADCs).
- Meghalaya vs. All Dimasa Students’ Union (2019) is the key judicial precedent.