Illegal mining activities in various states of India has led to the downfall of the minerals and mining sector. Supreme Court had imposed ban on mining activities in Goa, Karnataka and Odisha. On May 16, the Supreme Court ordered shutdown of mines involved in Odisha which are involved in irregular mining activities. This is going to hit hard at the Indian steel industry which is already reeling down due to the shortage of iron ore. The Supreme Court has imposed restrictions on the operation of 26 mine whose leases have not been renewed for decades. The Odisha government will have to decide within six months on whether or not to extend their leases. In other states like Jharkhand to curb illegal mining, instructions have been given to the SPs of five districts to control illegal coal mining in their areas. The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sajal Chakraborty in Ranchi few days back. He had directed to set up task force and ensure GPS monitor of coal-laden trucks to check smuggling activities of the black gold.