PM Modi flags national interest in Sterlite's 'green copper' project in Tamil Nadu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently invoked 'national interest' regarding the closure of the Sterlite Copper plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, suggesting a conspiracy behind its shutdown. The plant, closed for eight years after police firing on protesters in 2018 and environmental violations, had a capacity of 4 lakh tonnes of refined copper annually, meeting 40% of India's demand and contributing to exports. Its closure turned India into a net importer of copper, costing $3.5 billion in foreign exchange. Vedanta, the company, proposed a 'green copper' project with cleaner technology, but its application was rejected by the TNPCB. The Madras High Court has directed the State government to form an expert committee to study the new proposal, amidst ongoing legal and environmental debates.
Key Points
- PM Modi highlighted the closure of the Sterlite Copper plant in Thoothukudi as a matter of national interest, implying a conspiracy.
- The plant's closure transformed India from a copper exporter to a net importer, impacting the economy.
- Vedanta proposed a 'green copper' project with advanced, cleaner technology, but its application was rejected by the TNPCB.
- The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to establish an expert committee to review the new proposal.
- The case underscores the ongoing conflict between industrial development, environmental concerns, and judicial oversight.
Exam Facts
- The Sterlite Copper plant is located in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.
- The plant was shut down for eight years after police firing on protesters in 2018.
- The plant had a capacity of 4 lakh tonnes of refined copper annually.
- The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) withdrew consent for the unit to operate.
- The Madras High Court directed the State government to form an expert committee to study the 'green copper' facility proposal.
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