Mumbai: In a bid to curb illegal minor mineral mining in Maharashtra, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has directed the launch of a pilot tender process for drone-based surveys of mining zones.
The government has set a target to complete the mapping of all mining areas across the State within the next three months. This initiative aims not only to control illegal mining but also to accelerate environmentally friendly projects such as artificial sand production. Data gathered through these surveys will be submitted to District Collectors every three months and promptly uploaded to the ‘Mahakhanij’ portal.
Gold Rate
06 June 2025
The decision was taken during a recent meeting in the minister’s office, where officials discussed the use of drone technology for accurate surveying of minor mineral mining zones in Pune.
Traditional land survey methods often leave gaps that enable illegal mining. In contrast, the pilot drone surveys have demonstrated remarkable accuracy, prompting the decision to expand the use of drones to cover all minor mineral excavation sites. The initiative will focus on defining standardized survey methods, setting comprehensive guidelines, ensuring budgetary provision, and implementing a transparent tender process.
Advantages of drone surveys:
• Detailed insights into past, ongoing, and potential future mining activities, including the availability of resources like stone, murum, and sand.
• Simplified monitoring and control of illegal mining.
• Boost to eco-friendly initiatives such as artificial sand production.
“The use of drone technology for monitoring the extraction of minor minerals like stone, murum, and sand — as well as royalty collection — will be a game-changer. It will enhance transparency and efficiency in mineral management,” said Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.
