The Uttarakhand High Court has criticized authorities for failing to regulate soapstone mining in Bageshwar, highlighting environmental and safety concerns.

• Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a metamorphic rock primarily composed of the mineral talc, making it relatively soft and heat-resistant.
• It is soft, dense, and highly heat-resistant, making it suitable for various uses.
• Appearance includes shades of gray, bluish, green, or brown.
• Common applications are in countertops, sinks, hearths, sculptures, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
• Major reserves in India are in Rajasthan (57%) and Uttarakhand (25%).