Government's New Order: Farmers Can Now Dig Soil Without a Permit

Key Highlights

• Farmers can dig up to 100 cubic meters of soil without a permit.
• Online registration is required on upminemitra.in.
• No permit checks by police for up to 100 cubic meters.
• Exemptions from environmental clearance for specific activities.

The government has provided significant relief for farmers and common people by allowing them to dig up to 100 cubic meters of soil without needing a permit. Previously, strict regulations were in place to curb illegal mining, but these rules sometimes negatively impacted farmers. Now, with the amended rules, farmers can dig soil from their fields for personal use without facing legal obstacles.

No Permit Required Anymore

Until now, farmers and common people in Uttar Pradesh needed permission from the mining department to dig soil from their farms. The Yogi government has abolished this requirement, allowing up to 100 cubic meters of soil to be mined for personal work by simply registering online. This change means the police and administration cannot demand a permit from individuals transporting soil for personal use.

Online System for Soil Mining: Registration on UP Mine Mitra

In response to numerous complaints from farmers and common people, the UP government has implemented an online registration system. Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh issued an order stating that for mining and transporting up to 100 cubic meters of soil, individuals must upload the necessary information on the mining department's website, upminemitra.in. A photocopy of the registration allows for the unhindered mining and transport of soil from one's farm.

Permission Needed for Larger Quantities

For mining more than 100 cubic meters of soil, an online application must be submitted on upminemitra.in. The District Magistrate will provide online approval, and only then can permission be granted. Strict compliance with this order has been mandated for tehsil and police station personnel. Additionally, the Home Department has directed that local and Dial UP 112 police personnel should not independently check any transportation of soil or sand.

Understanding the Volume

Typically, a tractor-trolley carries three cubic meters of soil. Therefore, about 33 tractor-trolleys can transport 100 cubic meters of soil.

Exemptions from Environmental Clearance

According to Rule-3 of the Uttar Pradesh Sub Mineral (Remedy) Rules-1963, if a farmer extracts soil up to a depth of two meters, it is not considered mining. The department also provides exemptions from environmental clearance for various activities, such as:

• Manual mining of clay by potters for making earthen pots and toys.
• Extraction of ordinary clay or sand for making clay tiles.
• Removal of sand deposits from agriculture or agricultural land after floods.
• Mining of sand and soil for personal or community work within the village.
• Soil excavation for road, pipeline, and other infrastructure projects.
• Desilting of dams, ponds, rivers, and canals for maintenance and disaster management.
• Digging wells for irrigation or drinking water.
• Excavation for building foundations where prior environmental clearance is not required.

This new order aims to simplify the process for farmers and common people, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and providing relief while ensuring responsible soil management practices.

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CMV360 Says

This new government order simplifies soil digging for farmers, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and providing significant relief. Allowing up to 100 cubic meters of soil to be mined without a permit, ensures easier access for personal use while maintaining responsible soil management practices.