*Transparency in sand mining, environmental protection and strict action on illegal excavation are the top priority of the government*
*New shape being given to the sand mining system under transparent, scientific and public interest mineral policy in Chhattisgarh*
Raipur, July 15, 2025/ Extensive steps have been taken to make the sand mining policy in the state more transparent, organized, environment-sensitive and public-friendly. During the tenure of the previous government, the number of sand mines operating in the state had reduced from 300 to about 100-150, which affected construction work and promoted illegal mining. The present government has improved the mineral policy and made the sand mining system organized, controlled and public-friendly.
*Acceleration in environmental clearance process*
To expedite the environmental clearance process in the state, approval has been obtained from the Government of India and three state-level environmental impact assessment committees have been constituted. Earlier, only one committee was functioning. This decision has facilitated the process of quick disposal of pending cases.
*Increase in the number of valid mines*
Currently, 119 sand mines are operating duly with environmental clearance, while the approval process for 94 other mines is in the final stage. Along with this, there is a plan to approve more than 300 new mines in the next 1 to 1.5 years, which will ensure easy availability of sand and accelerate construction works.
*IIT Roorkee report: Mining from a scientific perspective*
The study conducted by IIT Roorkee on the environmental impacts of mining on major rivers has concluded that there is no negative impact on the rivers from proper and controlled sand mining. This report supports the state’s mineral policy based on a scientific approach.
*Strict action on illegal mining*
From the year 2024-25 to June 2025, 6,331 illegal mining cases were registered, out of which ₹18.02 crore was recovered, 184 machines were seized, 56 FIRs and 57 court complaints were filed. District and state level task forces are continuously monitoring and taking action, which includes officers from the Mineral, Revenue, Police, Transport and Environment Departments.
*Prompt action on disputes*
Prompt legal and administrative action has been taken on disputes and incidents related to sand in various districts of the state including Rajnandgaon and Balrampur. The government’s clear instruction is that no illegal activity will be tolerated.
*Relief in royalty to beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana*
According to the decision taken on March 15, 2024, eligible beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana have been exempted from royalty on sand. This decision has provided direct relief to the poor and needy.
*Future policy: Transparency and balance*
The policy of the Chhattisgarh government is clear — to base the exploitation of mineral resources on the principles of public interest, transparency and environmental balance. Prepared with an organized, scientific and long-term approach, this new sand mining policy will become a strong foundation for both the overall development and environmental protection of the state.