Key Facts
Andhra Pradesh Minister for Mines and Geology Kollu Ravindra on Thursday (June 12, 2026) inspected a granite quarry at Valasapalli near Madanapalle in Annamayya district. During the visit, he accused the previous YSRCP government of systematically damaging the state's mining sector and claimed that the current NDA government has achieved a 40% increase in mining revenue.
Allegations Against Previous Regime
Speaking to media after the inspection, Mr. Ravindra alleged that during the YSRCP term, several quarry owners were harassed with false cases, raids, and coercive methods, forcing many to shut down their units. He stated, "Valuable natural resources were ruthlessly exploited for vested interests, which resulted in huge losses to the State exchequer and the mining industry." The minister also accused the previous government of depriving the Vaddera community of quarry lease reservations.
NDA Government's Achievements
Mr. Ravindra highlighted that the NDA government has initiated steps to expose alleged irregularities by releasing White Papers and taking remedial measures to restore investor confidence. He said, "Despite the damage to the mining sector during the previous years, the coalition government could lead it to a remarkable 40% increase in revenue. This indicates a turnaround in the sector’s fortunes." The minister reiterated the government's commitment to bringing all mining leases into productive use and transforming Andhra Pradesh into a national model in the mining sector.
Potential of Madanapalle Region
Highlighting the mining potential of the Madanapalle region, which has substantial deposits of quartz, limestone, granite, and iron ore, the minister said efforts are underway to expand access to international markets.
Stance on Illegal Mining and Environment
Mr. Ravindra cautioned that illegal mining would not be tolerated. He stated, "A dedicated vigilance mechanism is monitoring operations across the State. At the same time, the government will never compromise on environmental safeguards."
FAQ
- What did Andhra Pradesh mining minister Kollu Ravindra allege about the previous YSRCP government? He alleged that the YSRCP regime systematically weakened the mining sector through political interference, harassment of operators, and irregular practices, causing huge losses to the state exchequer.
- How much revenue growth did the NDA government achieve in the mining sector? The NDA government achieved a 40% increase in mining revenue, according to Minister Kollu Ravindra.
- What steps is the NDA government taking to improve the mining sector in Andhra Pradesh? The government is releasing White Papers on irregularities, restoring investor confidence, bringing all mining leases into productive use, and expanding access to international markets for minerals from Madanapalle region.
- What did the minister say about illegal mining and environmental safeguards? He warned that illegal mining will not be tolerated and that a dedicated vigilance mechanism is monitoring operations, while the government will not compromise on environmental safeguards.
Source: www.thehindu.com