CM Bhajan Lal Sharma said that the state government is fully committed to stop illegal mining and strict and effective action will be taken against it. He directed for a surprise joint operation to rein in the mining mafia. The Chief Minister asked the officers to discharge the responsibility with full dedication and give top priority to the interest of the state.
Focus on development of mining sector At a review meeting of the action taken on illegal mining at CM Bhajan Lal Sharma residence on Wednesday, CM Bhajan Lal Sharma said that there is immense potential of mineral wealth in Rajasthan, which is providing direct and indirect employment to lakhs of people. Since the mining sector contributes significantly to the state’s revenue, it is the priority of the government to ensure proper utilisation of mineral wealth and increase in revenue. He directed the officers to work according to the set targets.
Joint efforts will put an end to illegal mining CM Bhajan Lal Sharma asked the police, district administration, forest, transport and mining departments to coordinate and take effective action against illegal mining. He directed the district collectors that strict action should be taken against the mining mafia and there should be regular monitoring of the district level SIT meeting.
Surveillance by drone CM Bhajan Lal Sharma said that drones and other modern technologies should be used to keep a close watch on illegal mining. Drone photography and videography of the entire area should be done to keep a check on illegal activities. Also, a joint task force should be formed at the headquarters level to conduct surprise inspections. Instructions were also given to expedite the process of prevention of illegal mining by disposing of pending cases expeditiously.
Initiatives to promote M-Send CM Bhajan Lal Sharma stressed on encouraging M-sand policy as an alternative to gravel and promoting the establishment of M-sand units in the state. This will reduce the exploitation of gravel and provide cheaper alternatives. He also directed to fill up the vacant posts in the mines department soon.
High level participation in the meeting Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant said that curbing illegal mining by promoting legal mining will increase revenue and create employment opportunities. Principal Secretary, Mines and Petroleum, Shri T. Ravikant gave a detailed briefing on various issues and proceedings related to illegal mining. The meeting was attended by District Collector, Superintendent of Police and other senior officials.