India is ramping up efforts to reduce its dependence on imports of rare earth materials—key components in electronics, defence systems, and clean energy technologies. The government is preparing a new incentive scheme to support domestic rare earth mining and magnet production. However, this initiative brings with it a major environmental concern: Toxic waste.
Toxic Waste: The Unaddressed Fallout
Experts warn that mining and processing rare earths can generate vast quantities of toxic waste. In fact, research suggests that processing a single tonne of rare earths can produce up to 2,000 tonnes of hazardous byproducts. Despite these risks, the proposed scheme is unlikely to introduce new safeguards or stricter environmental controls.
As per Hindustan Times, officials involved in drafting the plan confirmed that manufacturers must follow existing environmental regulations. However, they also admitted that they are not considering any additional provisions to address the specific dangers of rare earth waste.
Official Silence and Industry Concerns
While the ministries of heavy industries and mines have not responded to questions about waste management measures, insiders reveal that the issue was raised during internal consultations. Still, one official noted, “The toxic waste issue did come up, but it is unlikely that the scheme will contain a special provision on that.”
Another official claimed that India’s current legal framework for waste and pollution control should suffice. Yet, industry voices remain sceptical.
An executive closely involved in policy discussions cautioned, “There needs to be more attention on the type of toxic waste this kind of mining produces. It’s a long-standing global concern. Especially now, when more sustainable alternatives to rare earth magnets exist.”
A Global Warning from the Past
India is not the first country to grapple with the consequences of rare earth extraction. A 2014 analysis by The Guardian highlighted how the environmental costs had pushed many countries to scale back or abandon rare earth mining entirely—leaving China to dominate the sector.
More recent studies confirm the serious health and ecological risks posed by rare earth exposure and processing, although they stop short of quantifying the waste produced. Experts say these environmental concerns were a key reason why many nations distanced themselves from the sector decades ago.
Radioactivity Adds Another Layer of Risk
Rare earth mining in India often targets placer deposits rich in monazite, which contains thorium—a radioactive element. “Placer deposits rich in monazite contain thorium, posing risks of radioactive contamination, while processing generates both chemical and radioactive residues,” explained Rishabh Jain, senior programme lead at the Council on Energy, Environment and Water.
