- An online community of practice (for virtual discussion, training webinars), accessible by grassroots ASM organisations.
- Media transmission of key reports produced by the learning groups/dialogues;
- A national ASM outlook report
- Create ASM database of research, tools, projects and case studies
- Build membership of ASM network
- Circulate regular sector updates for members
- Multi-media story-telling to share miners’ perspectives
- Identify & enact options for online community of practice
KNOWLEDGE RESOURCES:
- Database of Research & Tools
- IEC Materials
- Training modules
- ASM projects
- ASM case studies
- ASM stories
- ASM blogs
- Membership & Network
- Publications & News Articles
- ASM Photographs & videos
Database of Research & Tools
Current Characteristics of the Sector
Government Priorities on ASM
Policy and Institutional Framework
Livelihood Significance of ASM
Despite its largely informal nature, ASM remains an important source of income for economically vulnerable populations across mineral-rich states.
ASM frequently serves as a critical livelihood option in remote and tribal regions where alternative employment opportunities remain limited. However, informality constrains access to finance, technology, occupational safety, environmental safeguards, and legal market channels.
Gender Dimensions
Women play a substantial yet often under-recognised role within India’s ASM sector. While men constitute the majority of the workforce, women participate extensively in mineral collection, sorting, processing, transportation, and trading activities, particularly within informal mining operations.
Women’s participation is frequently concentrated in lower-paid, labour-intensive roles with limited access to land rights, mining licences, financial services, protective equipment, or decision-making processes. Gender-responsive formalisation and social protection measures therefore remain important priorities for inclusive ASM development.
Implications for Development Partners
For international donors and development agencies, India’s ASM sector presents a significant opportunity to promote responsible mineral governance, poverty reduction, environmental sustainability, and inclusive economic development.
