Bihar to deploy 1,000 constables to crack down on illegal mining
The Bihar government's Mines and Geology Department has announced plans to recruit 1,000 constables, known as Khana Sipahis, to form a dedicated enforcement force against illegal mining, transportation, and storage of minerals. The move mirrors the structure of the state's Prohibition and Excise Department and aims to reduce dependence on local police for such operations.
Mines and Geology Minister Pramod Kumar announced the decision on Thursday, stating that the department has prepared a proposal for the recruitment. "A dedicated force will not only bring transparency in mining activities but also help the department conduct independent raids without relying on the local police," he told reporters.
The Minister highlighted that the department currently depends on the local police to act against illegal mining and related activities. This reliance, he noted, places an additional burden on district administrations already tasked with maintaining law and order. The recruitment will be carried out through the appropriate commission, with eligibility criteria, training procedures, and other modalities currently being finalised.
The announcement comes amid a notable rise in revenue collections from the mining sector. According to Minister Kumar, the department collected ₹790.23 crore in the first four months of the current financial year, compared to ₹590.12 crore collected in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year. This increase reflects improved enforcement and compliance efforts, he said.
Enforcement data shared by the Minister revealed that 16,861 raids were conducted up to July in the current financial year. These operations led to the arrest of 278 individuals and the seizure of 2,497 vehicles. Additionally, the department has recovered ₹32.64 crore as penalties during the same period.
The creation of a dedicated force is expected to strengthen the state's oversight of mineral resources, which are vital to infrastructure and economic development. Illegal mining not only causes revenue losses but also leads to environmental degradation and safety hazards. Having trained personnel focused solely on this issue could improve the effectiveness of enforcement and deter future violations.
The proposal is now pending approval from the competent authorities. Once cleared, the recruitment process will begin, marking a significant step towards better regulation of the mining sector in Bihar.
