Social and Occupational Impact of Coal Mining in Dhanbad (Jharkhand) India - A Case Study

The purpose of the study is to assess the impact of mining activities on occupational and social changes in coal mining area of district Dhanbad (Jharkhand). The area affected by mining activities called beneficiaries is compared with the area having no effect from mining activities called non-beneficiaries. Five villages were selected from each area. With the help of a random sampling method, 24 respondents from each village were drawn. Data were analyzed by using two-point scales (dichotomous scale) along with percentages associated with the 'Yes’ response and the all sample tested by the ‘Z’ test. The traditional structure of rural communities in this area was also reduced. Caste hierarchy and dominance were replaced by professional hierarchy and dominance. Due to mining, the people are more educated and aware to make themselves economically strong. It was found that the level of aspiration of villagers had increased as a result of mining. The study will be a valuable addition to the field of social science and policymaker to enhance the coping capacity related to the impacts of coal mining on socio-economic life. This study helpful for researcher/planner to gives a perception regarding the issues of livelihood and social structure of the Dhanbad Coal Field. This study is more inspiring for future research.