In a significant move benefiting farmers, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced in the state assembly that farmers will no longer be charged any royalty for minor minerals like soil, silt, and murum needed for land improvement or construction purposes. The minister assured that strict action will be taken against officials who impose fines on farmers’ vehicles for such activities. The decision came in response to demands from several MLAs in the State Legislature, with an official Government Resolution issued promptly.
The exemption aims to boost rural development in Maharashtra, where agriculture plays a vital role in the economy. Farmers are now allowed to extract minor minerals from various sources without any hindrance, facilitating activities like filling potholes, clearing mud during monsoons, and building essential structures on their land. Minister Bawankule emphasized the simplified administrative process, requiring farmers to submit a straightforward application to the local revenue official for permission, which should be granted within 15 days.
To prevent unnecessary harassment, the minister clarified that no official should seize farmers’ vehicles transporting soil or murum for personal or agricultural use. Any unwarranted actions against farmers will be met with severe consequences, ensuring their protection and welfare. The decision, aimed at benefiting farmers and enhancing agricultural practices, strictly prohibits any commercial exploitation of the concession, with legal actions promised against violators.
