Shimla, Aug 8,
The Council of Ministers of Himachal Pradesh discussed pivotal changes to the state’s mining regulations, aimed at boosting revenue and enhancing sustainable practices.
The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, focused on amendments to the Himachal Pradesh Minor Minerals (Concession) and Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2015.
The Cabinet’s decision was influenced by the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which grants states more authority to levy royalties on auctioned mining rights.
To capitalize on this, the state government has revised the mining rules to increase revenue significantly. Under the new provisions, suitable private lands will be auctioned for mineral extraction, with landowners receiving 80 percent of the annual bid amount.
This change is expected to enhance state revenue from mining operations, potentially raising it from Rs. 350 crore to Rs. 800 crore.
The Cabinet also approved new measures to promote systematic and sustainable mining practices. Machinery use for mineral excavation in riverbeds will now be permitted, with the mining depth increased from one meter to two meters.
Additionally, the new rules allow for the removal of sand and gravel from agricultural fields up to two meters deep after each monsoon season, categorizing this as a non-mining activity.
These regulatory updates are designed to address the growing demand for minerals while ensuring responsible mining practices.
By opening up private lands for mining and auctioning riverbed mineral rights, the state aims to bolster its financial resources and support sustainable development in the region.
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