In July 2026, Donald Trump removed monument protections from about 2.93 million acres at Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah. On September 11, the excluded lands became eligible for new mining claims and certain mineral activities, following the 60-day period set by presidential proclamations.
The move has drawn criticism from conservation groups and advocates.
This story was reported by The Times of India. Read the full coverage at The Times of India.
