With reference to “Centre must pay heed to mineral-rich states” (THI, Sept 30). Mining can generate investment, employment and revenue, but the benefits should not come at the cost of communities living around mineral deposits. States hosting these resources face displacement, environmental degradation and pressure on local infrastructure. Any new mining framework should therefore include stronger safeguards for the affected communities. A defined share of mining-related revenue could be directed towards local health, education, roads and rehabilitation. Environmental clearances must remain rigorous and should not become a mere formality in the interest of faster extraction. The Centre and states should jointly monitor compliance and publish regular reports. A development model that combines mineral extraction with environmental responsibility and local welfare would make mining more sustainable and socially acceptable.

A Myilsami, Coimbatore–641402

Govt must spell out future mining arrangements

Thisrefers to “Centre must pay heed to mineral-rich states” (THI, Sept 30). The disagreement over the proposed mining law also highlights the importance of policy certainty. Investors need clear rules, and governments must ensure that states are not suddenly deprived of legitimate revenue or decision-making space. Frequent changes in taxation, royalties or regulatory arrangements can create uncertainty for both industry and governments. The Centre should publish a clear framework explaining how existing and future mining arrangements will be treated. A formal consultation mechanism with mineral-producing states could prevent disputes before they reach the courts. Any retrospective financial implications should be handled carefully and transparently. Predictability, fair revenue-sharing and institutional dialogue can provide industry with confidence while respecting the constitutional position of states.

Swathi Senthilkumar, Coimbatore

Protect economic interests first

Regarding “Centre must pay heed to mineral-rich states” (THI, Sept 30), the proposed changes deserve examination from the standpoint of cooperative federalism. Natural resources may have national economic significance, but the states where minerals are extracted deal directly with the consequences of mining. Their participation in policy formulation is therefore essential. The Centre should convene a structured dialogue with mineral-rich states, industry representatives, local bodies and affected communities before implementing major changes. Differences over the law should be resolved through negotiation rather than prolonged political confrontation or litigation. At the same time, states should provide predictable approvals and ensure that regulatory processes remain efficient. A mutually agreed framework can protect national economic interests while giving states adequate fiscal space and communities a fair share of the benefits generated from their natural resources.

B A Neboba, Perundurai-638 052

Tech firms must adopt energy-efficient systems

Thisis further to the column “Creativity is destroying the environment” (THI Sept 30). Artificial intelligence is celebrated for the convenience it provides, but its environmental cost remains largely unexamined. Training GPT-3 alone is estimated to have evaporated about seven lakh litres of fresh water, and by 2027 global AI demand could equal the annual water use of 30 to 47 million people. In a country where nearly 60 crore people face severe water shortage, this cannot be ignored. Policymakers and technology companies must adopt energy-efficient systems, responsible water use and transparent disclosure.

Divyanshu Dhakad, Dhenkanal