Punjab Mining and Geology Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal has hit the ground running, prioritizing the Mining and Geology department on his very first day after assuming his office yesterday, with his primary focus to ensure complete transparency in the department's operations.
He averred his commitment during the Expression of Interest Workshop for integrated IT solutions and advanced technical systems related to mining activities in the state. In a bold move towards accountability, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal declared, "Our goal is to account for every tonne of minerals extracted. We aim to boost revenue while making the system more transparent."
The Mining & Geology Minister, while elaborating on the objectives of these new projects, stated, "By implementing this system, we seek to create a robust framework that not only facilitates precise tracking and recording of raw/processed materials but also ensures that the revenue generated aligns with the State Policy, which is crucial for maintaining financial integrity and supporting Punjab's economic goals."
In a directive to all officials, Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal asserted that all policies are being refined, with technology implementation planned in a phased manner. Addressing the gathering, the Cabinet Minister said that to combat illegal mining practices and enhance state revenue, the department is set to give a high-tech makeover to the existing system. The first phase of this modernization effort involves installing weighbridges on a Public-Private Participation (PPP) basis.
Notably, twelve multinational companies have shown interest in collaborating with the Department of Mines and Geology on this initiative. During the Expression of Interest meeting in Chandigarh, the Mining and Geology Department also announced the formation of six Flying Squad teams equipped with high-tech live coverage capabilities, to be monitored by the government at the head office.
Sh. Goyal said that in a comprehensive move to regulate processed material within the state, the department has proposed installing weighbridges, boom barriers, advanced camera systems (ANPR/PTZ/IP/Varifocal), RFID readers and RFID tags with prepaid facilities at approximately 101 strategic locations on a PPP mode. This initiative aims to address the limitations of the current system for accounting processed material from crusher units.
As part of this forward-thinking approach, various IT solution companies and firms presented their proposals related to monitoring and management activities, showcasing a range of hardware and software solutions to enhance the department's operational efficiency.
With these measures, the Mining and Geology Minister Sh. Barinder Kumar Goyal demonstrated a strong commitment to leveraging technology and transparency to reform Punjab's mining sector, promising a new era of accountability and increased revenue for the state.
Sh. Goyal also directed the officials to swiftly integrate cutting-edge technologies into the department, aiming to decisively combat illegal mining operations and bolster revenue generation and implement current policies in true spirit. Prominent amongst others who were present included Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, Secretary, Mines & Geology, Punjab, Mr. Abhijit Kaplish, Director Mining and Dr. Harinder Pal Singh Bedi, Chief Engineer, Mining.