During a high-level review meeting with the Department of Geology and Mining, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised on the vital contribution of the mining and minerals sector that helps the state towards its ambitious goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy. He said that mineral resources have moved beyond mere extraction and now play a vital role in boosting economic development, attracting investments, and generating employment at the local level.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised Uttar Pradesh’s mining policy, describing it as a model framework for other states. He emphasized the significant transformation of the sector, which has evolved from conventional practices to a more structured, technology-driven, and strategically governed system. This progress is the result of integrated technological advancements, enhanced transparency, and the implementation of investor-friendly reforms. The Chief Minister further stated that these measures have not only streamlined operations and improved regulatory efficiency but have also strengthened investor trust and stakeholder engagement in the state’s mineral and mining ecosystem.
Highlighting financial progress, the Chief Minister pointed out that mineral revenue in Uttar Pradesh grew at an average annual rate of 18.14 per cent between 2021-22 and 2024-25. In 2024-25 alone, major mineral revenues stood at Rs 608.11 crore, while Rs 623 crore was collected in just the first two months of 2025-26, a promising signal of rising sectoral performance.
In recent years, the state has successfully conducted auctions for lease agreements involving key mineral resources such as phosphorite, iron ore, and gold blocks. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath instructed officials to increase the composite licensing process and prioritize the timely identification, mapping, and geological assessment of potential mining zones so that economic potential can be unlocked efficiently.
The reforms have drawn strong attention from industrial giants. JSW Group, Adani Group, Tata Steel, and UltraTech Cement have all expressed interest in Uttar Pradesh’s mining landscape.
Uttar Pradesh Aiming for ‘Category-A’ in SMRI
The Department of Geology and Mining has made noteworthy progress in the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) by achieving 100 per cent implementation of a mine surveillance system across all mining districts. This has significantly reduced delays in environmental clearances and improved the efficiency of regulatory processes.
To further strengthen UP’s position, Yogi directed officials to complete the remaining reforms within the set timeline so the state can achieve ‘Category-A’ status in the national index.
The Uttar Pradesh government has adopted a firm approach to tackle illegal mining activities across the state. As part of this crackdown, officials have installed 57 technology-enabled check gates to closely monitor the movement of mineral-laden vehicles. These automated gates are helping authorities detect and prevent unauthorized transportation.
In addition, more than 21,000 vehicles involved in the illegal transport of minerals have been blacklisted, effectively barring them from further operations. To strengthen surveillance and improve regulatory efficiency, advanced systems such as the Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), colour coding, and white tagging have been implemented. These tools allow for real-time tracking and easy identification of vehicles engaged in legal mining operations, ensuring greater transparency and control over the mineral supply chain.
The state also collected Rs 259 crore from brick kiln operators last fiscal year, and has already gathered Rs 71 crore in the current year. Looking ahead, the Chief Minister instructed the department to complete the issuance of new leases for minor minerals during the monsoon season, so that mining activities can resume by October 15. This move is expected to ensure a smoother transition into the new mining cycle and prevent seasonal delays.
With sustained policy reforms, technology-backed monitoring, and growing investor interest, Uttar Pradesh’s mining sector is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of the state’s economic resurgence. As CM Yogi Adityanath pushes for robust governance and responsible resource management, the state is well on its way to harnessing its mineral wealth in the march towards a $1 trillion economy.
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