Punjab: The State Sand and Gravel Mining Policy, 2021, was approved by Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi on Tuesday, with sand and gravel being sold at Rs 5.50 per cubic foot across the state. According to a statement released by the Chief Minister's Office, sand and gravel will be provided to the public at a cost of Rs 5.50 per cubic foot at mining sites, including loading fees, and the royalty rate for ordinary clay and ordinary earth will be reduced from Rs 10 to Rs 2.5 per tonne in the public interest. The landowner or possessor can now dispose of up to 3-feet of ordinary earth extracted or removed during the levelling of their agriculture fields under the new policy.

The release stated that "removal of any minor mineral by the landowner or panchayat is allowed for meeting their land-filling requirements and for their bona fide requirements, including religious and development activities." It also stated that no rent, royalty, or permit fee is required for these activities, and that no permit is required. Officials and contractors must not obstruct these activities without a valid reason, and disciplinary action will be taken if any official or contractor is found guilty.

The statement added, "Publicity shall be done for the general public's information through mass media, notice boards at pit heads of mine sites, Government Offices and their premises to ensure that no one charges rates higher than those prescribed."

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