Rajasthan: The Rajasthan government has announced a large-scale, coordinated operation to curb illegal mining activities in the Aravalli region, with the campaign scheduled to run from December 29 to January 15. The joint crackdown will be carried out across 20 districts that fall within the Aravalli range, targeting illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals.
According to officials, the operation will involve coordinated action by multiple departments, including the Mines Department, Revenue Department, Police, Transport Department and Forest Department. The campaign will be conducted under the direct supervision of district collectors to ensure effective implementation and accountability at the ground level.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has issued clear instructions for strict enforcement, adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal mining activities. He has directed all concerned departments to work in close coordination and ensure that no violations are overlooked during the campaign period.
The operation aims to check not only unauthorised mining but also the illegal movement and storage of minerals extracted from protected or restricted areas. Officials said the joint effort is intended to close gaps in enforcement that allow such activities to continue despite existing regulations.
As part of the crackdown, authorities have been instructed to identify mining hotspots across the Aravalli districts. These areas will be placed under enhanced surveillance, with frequent inspections and targeted action to prevent illegal extraction and transportation. The identification of hotspots is expected to help enforcement agencies deploy resources more effectively.
The Chief Minister has also directed officials to seize machinery and equipment used in illegal mining operations. This includes heavy vehicles, excavators and other tools found to be involved in unauthorised activities. Officials said such seizures are aimed at disrupting illegal operations and acting as a deterrent against future violations.
In addition to enforcement measures, the government has emphasised fixing accountability among officers responsible for monitoring and regulation. Chief Minister Sharma has instructed that lapses at any level should be identified and responsibility clearly assigned. Action will be taken against officials found to be negligent in preventing or reporting illegal mining activities.
District collectors have been tasked with coordinating the efforts of all participating departments within their respective jurisdictions. They are expected to review progress regularly, ensure inter-departmental coordination and address operational challenges during the campaign period.
Officials said the involvement of the Police and Transport departments will be crucial in checking the movement of illegally mined material. Vehicle checks, verification of transport permits and monitoring of storage locations will form a key part of the operation.
The Forest Department will play a significant role in protecting forest land and ecologically sensitive zones within the Aravalli range. Illegal mining in these areas poses environmental risks, and authorities said special attention will be given to preventing damage to forest ecosystems.
The Mines Department will lead technical assessments and inspections related to mineral extraction, while the Revenue Department will assist in land verification and enforcement actions. Together, the departments are expected to ensure comprehensive coverage of illegal activities.
The Aravalli range, which stretches across several districts of Rajasthan, has long been vulnerable to illegal mining due to its mineral resources. The government said the joint operation reflects its commitment to safeguarding natural resources and enforcing mining laws more effectively.
Officials said the campaign from December 29 to January 15 is expected to send a strong message against illegal mining and related activities. The state government has indicated that similar coordinated efforts may be undertaken in the future based on the outcomes of this operation.
