Uttarakhand Tops Mining Reform Rankings, Secures Additional Rs 100 Crore Incentive

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttarakhand has secured yet another major incentive from the central government for its strong performance and continuous reforms in the mining sector. The Ministry of Mines has approved an additional Rs 100 crore for the state under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme for 2025–26, recognising Uttarakhand’s achievements in minor mineral reforms.

This comes after the state received Rs 100 crore in October 2025 for securing second place in the national SMRI rankings. With the latest allocation, Uttarakhand has now received a total of Rs 200 crore for its mining sector reforms.

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According to a recent memorandum issued by the central government on November 18, 2025, Uttarakhand successfully implemented most reform measures on time, meeting standards for six out of seven major reforms related to minor minerals, earning the state first position nationally.

The state’s transparent, business-friendly policies and strong management in the mining department have significantly boosted government revenue. The reforms have also generated substantial employment opportunities, benefiting thousands of people, traders, and entrepreneurs associated with the mining sector. Residents and implementing agencies are also gaining access to construction materials at more affordable rates.

The central government’s review highlights Uttarakhand’s rapid progress and consistent reform implementation. Among the states assessed, Nagaland, Jammu and Kashmir, and Uttarakhand, the Himalayan state recorded the best performance.

The Ministry of Finance has issued the order for the additional Rs 100 crore, acknowledging that all states have strengthened their mining reform processes, with Uttarakhand emerging as a model. Several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir, are now adopting Uttarakhand’s mining policies.

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Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the state has taken several steps, such as e-auction systems and satellite-based monitoring, to enhance transparency and accountability in the mining sector.

“We are curbing illegal mining while ensuring environmental protection. The positive impact of these measures is now clearly visible,” he said.