3 Things A 'missing' mountain of coal, global plastics treaty, and GST reforms
Aug 19, 2025
Sukrita Baruah, a reporter from The Indian Express, delves into a scandal involving 2 lakh metric tonnes of illegally mined coal that has mysteriously disappeared in Meghalaya. She reveals the ongoing investigations and the dire consequences of illegal mining practices. The discussion also shifts to the global plastics treaty, where countries have struggled to reach agreement, highlighting the urgency of tackling plastic pollution. Finally, explore India's new GST proposals, particularly the tax implications for online gaming, amid broader economic reforms.
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Legal Seizure Hampered By Terrain And Weather
- Law requires illegally mined minerals to be seized and stored, but remote terrain and monsoon hindered enforcement.
- The Meghalaya High Court flagged apparent illegal lifting and demanded accountability from officials.
Minister's Remark Triggers Public Outcry
- A state minister casually suggested heavy rains might have swept away thousands of tonnes, sparking public outcry.
- The remark intensified scrutiny and calls for investigation from opposition leaders.
Verify On Ground Before Concluding
- District administration deployed senior officials and local stakeholders to verify sites and found another 500 metric tons.
- Continue physical ground verification and wait for the dry season to improve access and accountability.