Rajasthan CM Implements Drones for Illegal Mining Oversight
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Synopsis
Rajasthan's Chief Minister announced the use of drones and advanced technology for real-time monitoring of illegal mining activities. A joint task force will facilitate surprise inspections and expedite pending cases, reinforcing the government's commitment to stringent measures against illegal mining.
Key Takeaways
- Drones and technology for real-time monitoring.
- Joint task force for surprise inspections.
- Expedited action on pending illegal mining cases.
- Focus on sustainable alternatives like M-Sand.
- Collaboration between multiple departments for enforcement.
Jaipur, April 2 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Rajasthan announced on Wednesday that drones and cutting-edge technology will be deployed for real-time monitoring of illegal mining activities in the state. He also emphasized the need for aerial photography and videography to boost enforcement strategies.
The Chief Minister mentioned that a joint task force will be established at the headquarters level to facilitate surprise inspections, highlighting the need to expedite pending cases related to illegal mining to enhance preventive measures.
Sharma reiterated the government's dedication to combating illegal mining through rigorous approaches. He stated, "Surprise joint campaigns will be initiated to ensure strict action against the mining mafia," during a review meeting on illegal mining held at the Chief Minister's residence.
He stressed that government officials should prioritize the interests of the state and perform their duties with utmost commitment, while also pointing out Rajasthan's abundant mineral resources that provide employment to thousands and significantly contribute to the state's revenue.
He underlined the importance of effective resource management and revenue improvement, instructing officials to establish clear action targets.
The Chief Minister directed the mining department to take firm actions against illegal mining in collaboration with the police, district administration, forest, and transport departments.
District collectors were urged to enforce laws rigorously to deter illegal miners. Regular monitoring of district-level SIT meetings and daily reporting were mandated.
To improve surveillance, Sharma directed the implementation of drones and modern technology for real-time monitoring of illegal mining activities.
He also called for the use of aerial photography and videography to reinforce enforcement strategies.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister advocated for promoting M-Sand as a sustainable alternative to gravel under the state’s M-Sand policy. Encouraging the establishment of M-Sand units and increasing their utilization will assist in reducing gravel exploitation.
He also announced plans for recruitment in the Mines Department to bolster enforcement efforts.
Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant reaffirmed the government’s focus on enhancing legal mining while curtailing illegal operations to boost revenue and create job opportunities.
The meeting included comprehensive discussions led by Principal Secretary (Mines and Petroleum) T. Ravikant, addressing critical issues such as mineral potential, enforcement actions, export and storage regulations, and interdepartmental coordination.
High-ranking officials, including Director General of Police U.R. Sahu, Additional Chief Secretaries Aparna Arora (Forest and Environment), Shikhar Aggarwal (Chief Minister’s Office), Anand Kumar (Home), and Praveen Gupta (Public Works), along with district collectors, police superintendents, and other relevant officers, participated in the meeting via video conference.
