Bhubaneswar: The state Cabinet Friday approved the enactment of the ‘Odisha Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining and Regulation of Trading, Transportation & Storage) Rules, 2025’ to curb theft, smuggling and illegal mining.
The new rules, which will replace the existing 2007 Rules, have also been designed for administrative convenience and to ensure stronger mechanisms to regulate the possession, storage, trading, and transportation of minerals more effectively.
The new rules focus on creating a hassle-free environment for mining lessees and enhancing ease of doing business, aligning with the state’s broader development vision of ‘Viksit Odisha,’ Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja told reporters after the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The new mechanism will enable more efficient and effective mineral administration compared to the 2007 Rules. It introduces expanded regulatory provisions consistent with the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, as amended, officials said.
With the Cabinet’s approval, the government is set to implement a more robust and transparent system aimed at curbing illegal mineral activities while ensuring lawful and regulated mineral movement across the state.
