Delays, lack of monitoring caused 409cr loss to mining dept: CAG
CAG took note of the mining activities between 2017-18 and 2021-22 financial years to conclude its findings.
On a positive note, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India office praised some practices implemented by the mining department in recent years, including the centralised Mine Mitra web portal and integrated surveillance system. A geo-spatial analysis to ascertain illegal mining was also undertaken in collaboration with MNNIT Prayagraj, under which some areas that were taken up on lease in Hamirpur and Prayagraj were examined.
The report mentioned that the department suffered a shortfall of Rs 322 crore as royalty fees from minerals during the said period, which could have been ensured through a prompt response from the authorities.
Providing its recommendations to the state govt for further action, the CAG report said that steps need to be taken to deploy adequate manpower to monitor and regulate illegal mining activities. It pointed out that the department's portal, during the said five years, was unable to accurately gauge the amount of minerals being excavated or collect data related to employment generation.
The report mentioned focus on closer coordination among govt agencies and emphasised linking the mining department portal with VAHAN database while generating MM-11 (online royalty receipts). Senior mining department officials said the majority of the recommendations put forth by CAG have already been implemented, including linking the database and updating the portal to collect the data accurately. "We have already taken necessary steps and are working to improve the system further," said a senior officer.
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