Himachal’s mineral revenue rises 70% in 3 yrs: CM Sukhu
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), July 29, 2026: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday said the state’s revenue from mineral exploitation has increased by nearly 70 per cent over the past three years, rising from ₹200 crore in 2021–22 to ₹340 crore in 2025–26.
Reviewing the functioning of the Mining Wing under the Industries Department, the Chief Minister said the increase reflected improved revenue generation from major and minor minerals.
Sukhu said Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand had imposed additional fees on minor minerals transported from Himachal Pradesh, resulting in a decline in the volume of minerals being transported from the state’s border areas and affecting revenue collections. He directed the department to take up the issue with the neighbouring states through appropriate legal channels.
The Chief Minister also raised concerns over the Centre not revising royalty rates on limestone since 2014, saying the delay was adversely affecting the state’s revenue. He said the Himachal Pradesh government would pursue the matter on priority to secure its rightful share.
Emphasising the need for sustainable mining, Sukhu directed the concerned departments to ensure that mineral extraction is carried out scientifically and in an environmentally responsible manner.
“Development and environmental protection must go hand in hand. Natural resources should be exploited strictly in accordance with established rules and standards,” he said.
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure that mining activities do not cause damage to rivers, streams, forests or other natural resources. He stressed the need for strict compliance with environmental norms and regular monitoring of mining operations.
Sukhu also ordered officials to intensify efforts to curb illegal mining and take stringent action against those found violating the rules. He said mining activities should be restricted to designated areas, with regular inspections conducted to ensure compliance with regulations.
Stating that protecting Himachal Pradesh’s fragile ecology and natural heritage remains a key priority of the state government, Sukhu urged all stakeholders involved in mining operations to adopt an environmentally sensitive approach and promote sustainable and responsible mineral extraction.
Industries Minister Harsh Vardhan Chauhan, Principal Secretary M. Sudha Devi, Secretary, Environment, Science and Technology and Climate Change Dr Sushil Kumar Singla, Director Industries Vivek Bhatia, Joint Member Secretary, HIMCOST Dr Suresh Chand Atri and other senior officials attended the meeting.