Lucknow: Noting that the mining sector in UP has evolved beyond extraction, Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday said that the mineral resources has become a key driver of economic growth, investment attraction, and local employment generation in the state.Chairing the review meeting of the department of geology and mining, Yogi stated that the state’s mining policy has now emerged as a model before the country and is set to play a crucial role in Uttar Pradesh’s journey towards achieving a one trillion-dollar economy.He noted that mineral revenue recorded an average annual growth rate of 18.14% between 2021–22 and 2024–25.While the revenue from major minerals in 2024–25 stood at Rs 608.11 crore, in just the first two months of 2025–26, the state generated Rs 623 crore in revenue.Yogi was informed that lease agreements for major minerals such as phosphorite, iron ore and gold blocks were successfully auctioned in recent years. He directed officials to expedite the composite licensing process further and ensure timely identification of potential mining zones along with the prompt preparation of geological reports. Emphasising the impact of transparent and investor-friendly policies, the Chief Minister noted that prominent companies like JSW, Adani Group, Tata Steel and UltraTech Cement have shown a strong interest in the sector.The department undertook substantial work across more than 70 sub-indicators to secure top position in the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI). A 100% implementation of the mine surveillance system was achieved in all mining districts, leading to significant improvements in the average timeline for environmental clearances and enhancing the overall transparency of regulatory procedures. Yogi added that the remaining reforms be completed within the stipulated time frame to ensure Uttar Pradesh attains ‘Category-A’ status in SMRI.Officials revealed that 57 technology-enabled check gates were installed and 21,477 vehicles had been blacklisted for transporting minerals in an illegal manner. Systems such as the Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), colour coding and white tagging are functioning efficiently. Through the brick kiln operators, the state had generated a revenue of Rs 259 crore last financial year whereas in this year Rs 71 crore have been collected.Additionally, Yogi directed that the process of issuing new leases for minor minerals be completed during the monsoon season, enabling mining activities to commence from October 15.
