AI Generated Summary
- In a bid to rein in illegal mining and stabilise the supply of construction materials, the Punjab Government is preparing to open 200 new mining sites while permitting mineral extraction at nearly 290 crusher- and landowner-owned locations across the state.
- The move follows a recent amendment to the state’s mining policy, which now allows private landowners and crusher operators to extract minerals from their own land after paying the prescribed royalty to the government.
- Officials said the initiative is expected to significantly increase the availability of legally mined minor minerals such as sand and gravel, commodities that are in high demand for infrastructure and real estate projects.
In a bid to rein in illegal mining and stabilise the supply of construction materials, the Punjab Government is preparing to open 200 new mining sites while permitting mineral extraction at nearly 290 crusher- and landowner-owned locations across the state.
Officials said the initiative is expected to significantly increase the availability of legally mined minor minerals such as sand and gravel, commodities that are in high demand for infrastructure and real estate projects. The move follows a recent amendment to the state’s mining policy, which now allows private landowners and crusher operators to extract minerals from their own land after paying the prescribed royalty to the government.
According to government sources, while 200 fresh mining sites have already been identified by the authorities, an additional 290 proposals have been received from private stakeholders seeking permission to undertake mining operations on their land. District survey reports, a mandatory prerequisite for such approvals, are currently being prepared, with most nearing completion.
Mining Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said operations on private land are expected to begin by the end of March. He expressed confidence that the expanded legal framework would decisively address the problem of unauthorised extraction. “Once mining on private land starts, the supply of legally mined minerals will exceed demand. This will effectively bring illegal mining to an end,” he said.
The minister also highlighted the revenue potential of the sector. Late last year, the government auctioned 29 mining sites, earning ₹11.61 crore. In addition, 26 letters of intent have already been issued to private landowners, clearing the way for new operations to commence once formalities are completed.
Officials believe the combined impact of new government-operated sites and regulated private mining will not only improve transparency but also ensure steady supplies for the construction sector, while strengthening the state’s revenue base.
