The Punjab government has decided to introduce a new comprehensive legal system for mining and minerals.
The Punjab Mines and Minerals Bill 2025 will be presented in the Punjab Assembly for approval tomorrow. The bill provides for the establishment of a licensing authority, a mining and minerals force, specialised police stations, and dedicated courts.
Under the bill, the licensing authority will have the power to issue, suspend, or revoke licences. The mining and minerals force will be responsible for preventing illegal mining activities. Specialised police stations and courts will handle matters related to mining and minerals.
The senior officer of the mining and minerals force will be the Director General. In addition to the Director General and other senior officers, the force will be required to wear uniforms and will have the authority to make arrests. Upon approval, the bill will repeal multiple existing draft laws.
Decisions of the special courts may be challenged in the sessions courts. The bill also provides for the creation of an Exploration Promotion Division, which will maintain a geological database. It contains provisions for bidding procedures and penalties.
The bill aimed to attract investment and provide legal certainty. Its objective is to establish an effective legal system in line with national and international standards and to promote scientifically and environmentally responsible mining practices.
