Punjab Cabinet Approves Amendment to Minor Mineral Policy to Curb Illegal Mining
The Punjab Cabinet has approved an amendment to the Minor Mineral Policy that aims to reduce illegal mining and lower the price of sand and gravel for the public. This move will also streamline the process for landowners to apply for mining leases and sell materials in the open market.
The Punjab Cabinet has given its nod to amend the Minor Mineral Policy, paving the way for curbing illegal mining and reducing the price of sand and gravel. The amendment will allow landowners with sand deposits to apply for a mining lease and sell the material in the market at government's notified rates.
The approved amendments aim to enhance the supply of raw materials, reduce illegal mining and corruption, lower consumer prices, increase state revenues, and eliminate potential monopolies in the mining sector. Crusher Mining Sites (CRMS) and Landowner Mining Sites (LMS) will enable owners to obtain mining leases and sell materials in the market at notified rates.
Deputy Commissioners have been granted the authority to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for government and panchayat lands. The royalty on sand and gravel has been increased, and individuals above 50 years old can now avail of the Teerth Yatra scheme.
The cabinet has also launched the 'Mukhya Mantri Teerth Yatra Scheme,' allowing individuals above 50 years of age to visit religious places free of cost. The government will cover the entire journey cost, including AC travel, accommodation, and meals. Registration for the yatra will begin in the last week of April, with the yatra commencing in May.