Patna: The Government of Bihar has introduced a new regulatory framework for stone mining, making environmental clearance mandatory before any mining lease operations can begin.
Under the revised system, identified stone mining plots across seven districts will be allotted through e-auction. However, officials said mining activities would only be permitted after preparation of a District Survey Report and approval from the competent environmental authorities.
New Rules Linked To Central Notification And Supreme Court Directions
According to officials, the framework has been implemented in line with the latest notification issued by the Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change as well as directives issued by the Supreme Court of India.
The Department of Mines and Geology Bihar said District Survey Reports would now be prepared before auctioning mining leases to ensure smoother operations after extraction begins.
The reports will subsequently require approval from the State-Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority.
Mining To Begin Only After Environmental Approval
Officials clarified that mining work would only commence after the concerned agency receives the necessary statutory No Objection Certificate (NOC).
The government said the move was intended to strengthen environmental safeguards, improve regulatory oversight and curb illegal mining activities across the state.
E-Auction To Be Conducted Through MSTC Portal
Stone mining leases will be auctioned through the MSTC Limited portal, officials said.
The proposal has already received approval from the state cabinet.
Authorities believe the new mechanism will streamline mining operations while ensuring compliance with environmental norms and legal procedures before extraction begins.
