Himachalās mineral extraction revenue grows by 70% in last three years: CM Sukhu
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said on Wednesday (July 29, 2026) that mineral extraction revenue in the State has grown by 70% over
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said on Wednesday (July 29, 2026) that mineral extraction revenue in the State has grown by 70% over the past three years, rising from ā¹200 crore in 2021-22 to ā¹340 crore in 2025-26. He was presiding over the meeting of the mining wing of the Industries Department in Shimla. āThe revenue from major and minor minerals has increased from ā¹200 crore in 2021-22 to ā¹340 crore in 2025-26,ā he said.
Sukhu said the revenue growth is commendable, especially considering that neighbouring States of Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand have imposed additional charges on the transportation of minor minerals originating from Himachal Pradesh. He directed the Department to take up the matter with the neighbouring States through appropriate legal and administrative channels. Pointing out that the Central government has not revised the royalty rates of limestone since 2014, the Chief Minister said it has adversely impacted the Stateās revenue, adding that the State government would strongly pursue the matter to secure its legitimate dues.
Asserting that development and environmental conservation must go hand in hand and that natural resources should be extracted strictly in line with prescribed rules and standards, Mr. Sukhu directed the departments concerned to ensure that mineral extraction in the State is carried out in a scientific and environmentally sustainable manner. āEnvironmental protection must remain the top priority during mining operations. The authorities are to ensure that rivers, streams, forests and other natural resources are not harmed in any manner and all environmental norms are strictly enforced,ā he said.
The Chief Minister said that preserving Himachal Pradeshās fragile ecology and rich natural heritage is among the State governmentās foremost priorities. He urged all stakeholders associated with mining activities to adopt an environmentally responsible approach and promote sustainable and responsible mining practices.
The BriefWire