Diamond hunting is a family tradition passed down through generations in Panna district, India, where miners spend their days searching for diamonds to escape poverty. Despite the decline in diamond reserves due to over-mining, hopeful miners like Prakash Sharma continue their quest, inspired by past successes in finding diamonds. The miners sift through gravel with the hope of striking it big and earning a fortune from their finds. While the government oversees diamond mining in Panna, many miners prefer to sell their diamonds illegally to avoid taxes and ensure quicker payments.
The legacy of diamond mining in Panna dates back centuries, with the district being a key player in India’s diamond industry. However, recent efforts to preserve the tiger population in the Panna Tiger Reserve have presented challenges to the miners, who risk severe penalties for mining in restricted areas. Despite the adversities, miners like Prakash Majumdar persist in their search, with the hope of changing their fate and striking it rich. The allure of finding diamonds continues to drive these miners, making diamond hunting an integral part of their lives and their pursuit for a better future.
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