Dehradun, April 5 (NationPress) Uttarakhand has achieved a historic milestone in mining revenue, surpassing the Rs 1,200 crore threshold for the very first time. The remarkable growth is attributed to the efforts of the state government led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who emphasizes a combination of transparency, technological advancements, and rigorous measures against illegal mining.

As per official reports, the mining department of Uttarakhand generated Rs 1,217 crore during the financial year 2025–26, well exceeding the initial target of Rs 950 crore.

This revenue comprises Rs 1,130 crore deposited into the state treasury, Rs 80 crore allocated to the District Mineral Foundation (DMF), and Rs 7 crore collected for the State Mineral Exploration Trust (SMET).

This performance represents a significant increase from the previous fiscal year 2024–25, when the department recorded Rs 1,041 crore against a target of Rs 875 crore, demonstrating continuous growth in the mining sector.

Officials indicate that the consistent rise in mining revenue highlights the positive impact of reforms under Chief Minister Dhami's leadership, which centers on transparency, accountability, and substantial systemic changes.

The state has seen a phenomenal growth in mining revenue from Rs 110 crore in 2012–13 to over Rs 1,200 crore in 2025–26.

To enhance legal mining practices, the state government has refined mineral policies and simplified regulations while intensifying actions against illegal extraction, transportation, and storage.

Mining leases are now granted through transparent procedures, which officials assert has bolstered investor confidence and increased revenue.

Technological innovations have been pivotal in strengthening enforcement measures.

The state has launched the Mining Digital Transformation and Surveillance System (MDTSS), installing 45 high-tech e-check gates equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras and RFID technology across four districts.

Furthermore, digital initiatives such as the Mineral Management System, e-Ravanna, Mining e-Services, Surveillance Enforcement System, and Decision Support System have been launched to improve operational efficiency and combat malpractices.

To enhance security, the government has introduced a special security-featured paper for the e-Ravanna system, aimed at mitigating fraud and misuse.

These comprehensive measures have reportedly led to a significant decrease in illegal mining activities, which has contributed to the revenue surge.

The reforms have garnered national acclaim.

On March 28, 2026, the MDTSS and e-Khanna Security Paper received the prestigious SKOCH Award (Gold) in New Delhi.

Additionally, Uttarakhand achieved second place among 'C' category states in Minor Mineral Reforms as recognized by the Ministry of Mines, earning an incentive of Rs 100 crore.

The state also received an extra Rs 100 crore through the State Mining Readiness Index for its improved performance.

Officials assert that the combination of stringent enforcement, policy reforms, and technological integration has established Uttarakhand's mining sector as a benchmark for good governance, significantly bolstering the state’s economic development.