Introduction

Uttarakhand is a Himalayan mountainous state where a rich reservoir of minerals and minor minerals is abundantly present. The major minerals include magnesite, limestone, and base metals (such as gold, silver, lead, etc.), while the minor minerals comprise local rock minerals like soapstone, silica sand, barite, etc. Additionally, riverbed minerals such as sand, gravel, and boulders are also available.

Mining/extraction in riverbed areas within forest regions is carried out by the Uttarakhand Forest Development Corporation, whereas in revenue river areas, it is managed by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam and Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam. In privately owned land areas, mining activities are undertaken by private individuals.

Under the powers granted by Section 15 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, the state government has enacted the Uttarakhand Minor Mineral (Concession) Rules, 2023 (as amended from time to time) to regulate minor mineral mining activities. Additionally, under Section 23C of the same Act, the state has introduced the Uttarakhand Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation, and Storage) Rules, 2021 (as amended from time to time) to curb illegal mining, transportation, and storage.

Furthermore, the Uttarakhand Stone Crusher, Screening Plant, Pulverizer Plant, Hot Mix Plant, Ready Mix Plant License Policy-2021 (as amended from time to time) and the Uttarakhand River Dredging Policy-2021 (as amended from time to time) have been promulgated.