Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Cabinet on Friday approved the enactment of the “Odisha Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining and Regulation of Trading, Transportation & Storage) Rules, 2025”, introducing a comprehensive new legal framework to curb illegal mining and streamline mineral administration across the State. The new rules will replace the existing 2007 Rules, which have been in force for nearly two decades.
According to the government, the updated framework has been designed for administrative convenience and to ensure stronger mechanisms for preventing theft, smuggling, and illegal mining. It also aims to regulate the possession, storage, trading, and transportation of minerals more effectively.
The new Rules focus on creating a hassle-free environment for mining lessees and enhancing ease of doing business, aligning with the State’s broader development vision of “Viksit Odisha.”
Officials said the 2025 framework will enable more efficient and effective mineral administration compared to the 2007 Rules. It introduces expanded regulatory provisions consistent with the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, as amended.
With the Cabinet’s approval, the State is set to implement a more robust and transparent system aimed at curbing illegal mineral activities while ensuring lawful and regulated mineral movement across Odisha.
