Punjab’s Mining Sector Achieves Unprecedented Growth Under Mann Government
Transforming the Industry – Innovation, Efficiency, and Sustainability at the Core
The Punjab Government, under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has set new benchmarks in the mining sector in 2024, fostering growth, transparency, and sustainability. The Mines and Geology Department has introduced reforms that not only bolster the state’s economy but also ensure that the benefits of mining reach local communities.
To modernize and improve the mining sector, the introduction of the Punjab Minor Mineral Policy 2023 has proven pivotal. This policy has enhanced public mining operations with 73 active sites generating Rs. 16.07 crore for the state and Rs. 13.77 crore for local villages, while also stabilizing sand prices. A total of 18.37 lakh metric tons of sand have been supplied, addressing public demand efficiently.
The department’s focus on commercial mining has also yielded impressive results, with the auctioning of 41 clusters across 65 sites, generating Rs. 9 crore in revenue. In the upcoming phase, plans are in place to auction an additional 100 clusters while keeping pit head sale prices affordable at Rs. 5.50 per cubic foot (excluding GST).
Digitization has played a crucial role in improving the ease of business and transparency in the sector. Integration with the “Invest Punjab” portal allows automatic approval of permits within 72 hours, streamlining the entire process and reducing bureaucratic delays.
In the fight against illegal mining, the Punjab Government has ramped up enforcement efforts. Since April 2022, 1,169 FIRs have been registered, and 867 challans have been issued. Toll-free complaint numbers and flying squads have further strengthened the crackdown on illegal mining activities.
Revenue generation has reached record levels, with total revenue for the fiscal year 2023-24 rising to Rs. 288.75 crore, up from Rs. 247 crore the previous year. The department is also expanding its efforts by including more sites in the District Survey Reports (DSRs) and verifying data in mining plans to meet the growing demand for mining material at affordable rates.
Technological advancements have also been central to these efforts. The introduction of the “Pb Mines Inspection APP” allows citizens to report illegal mining in real time, fostering greater transparency. Additionally, a Rs. 37 crore Public-Private Partnership initiative is installing modern weighbridges and surveillance systems at crusher sites to improve monitoring.
The Punjab Crusher Policy 2023, addressing the concerns of crusher unions, ensures a transparent e-tendering process for selecting Public Crusher Units, emphasizing the department’s commitment to maintaining fairness and transparency.
Mining and Geology Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal reiterated that the Mann Government is focused on ensuring that the mining sector continues to drive Punjab’s economic growth, while promoting environmental sustainability and benefiting local communities.