Bihar Cracks Down on Sand Mining Firms That Surrendered Leases
In a significant move to regulate the sand mining sector, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Mines and Geology Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha declared on Thursday that companies which have surrendered sand mining leases in the state will be permanently barred from participating in fresh tenders for those sites. This announcement came during a press conference in Patna, where Sinha outlined strict measures against firms accused of unethical practices.
Revenue Loss and Lease Surrenders
Sinha revealed that several companies have surrendered leases for 78 sand ghats, resulting in an estimated revenue loss of approximately Rs 700 crore to the state's mines and geology department. According to the minister, these firms cited heavy financial losses as their reason for giving up the leases. However, Sinha alleged that the companies had originally secured the sand mining leases by quoting excessively high bid amounts with the intention of making quick profits through illegal mining activities.
Strict Ban and Policy Amendments
The deputy CM emphasized that these companies will be prohibited from bidding again when fresh tenders are floated for the 78 ghats. He stated that this restriction will remain in force even if the firms attempt to participate under changed names or through newly renamed companies. To formalize this action, Sinha announced that the state government is preparing to amend its mining policy to officially blacklist such companies. He added that the companies and individuals involved will be identified, and further action will be taken against them, including the seizure of their security deposits.
Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Sinha explained that the department's stringent actions against illegal mining and vehicle overloading made it difficult for these companies to continue operations, ultimately forcing them to surrender the leases. He highlighted that the state's proactive measures have been effective in curbing malpractices in the mining sector.
Bihari Yoddha Purashkar Initiative
At the same event, Sinha transferred Rs 3.70 lakh to the bank accounts of 71 informants under the department's "Bihari Yoddha Purashkar" initiative. This program, launched by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, aims to encourage public participation in curbing illegal mining, transportation, and overloading. Informants who provide information about illegal mining, transportation, and overloading by tractors receive Rs 5,000, while those reporting illegal movement by trucks are given Rs 10,000.
Sinha noted that the identities of these "Yoddhas" are kept confidential for safety reasons. He proudly claimed that Bihar is the first state in India to introduce such a measure and credited informants with playing a crucial role in reducing illegal mining and vehicle overloading.
Revenue Growth and Future Targets
Highlighting the department's financial performance, Sinha reported that revenue collections have more than doubled from Rs 1,600 crore in 2021-22 to Rs 3,536 crore in 2024-25. He expressed confidence that the department will comfortably achieve its revenue target of Rs 3,800 crore for 2025-26, noting that more than Rs 3,000 crore has already been collected so far. Additionally, Sinha projected that the department expects to collect another Rs 200 crore to Rs 300 crore in March, along with Rs 500 crore to Rs 600 crore anticipated from other work departments.
This comprehensive approach underscores Bihar's commitment to reforming its mining sector, ensuring transparency, and boosting state revenue through lawful practices.
