Explanation:

The Rajasthan state government has amended the rules under minor mineral policy-2017 as proposed in the budget 2022-23.

The state government has thereby, accepted the demands of the industry that would accelerate exploration and mining in a safe, environmentally friendly and productive manner.

Besides, in a huge relief to the lease holders, the government also extended the lease period expiring in 2025 to 2040, which is expected to bring in momentum as investors would be certain of the time period for their investments.

While the chief minister approved the amendments, the mining industry is awaiting a formal notification which would be a key to implementation of these amendments on the ground.

According to the Secretary general of Federation of Mining Associations of Rajasthan (FMAR), the extension of lease period will bring life back to many leases.

The local industry now expects new investments of about Rs1500-2000 crore that will come due to the extension. The extension gives the lease holders the time comfort to make new investments which in turn will create jobs and generate other activities.

As per the amendments, the government also removed the cap of four hectares for mining leases on khatedari land. As per the earlier provisions, people having mineral bearing land over 4 hectares were required to apply for multiple licences.

With the restriction gone, even private investors would be interested who could get consent from the owners of khatedari land and apply for licences.