Patna
The Bihar government has taken the step of withholding salaries for district mineral development officers (MDOs) who reportedly fell short of revenue collection targets in their respective areas for the ongoing fiscal year. The Mines and Geology Department of the state government has sought explanations from officers in Jehanabad, Gaya, Munger, Jamui, and Aurangabad for not meeting the revenue targets until December 2023. The department has achieved approximately 42% of its revenue target of Rs 3,590.66 crore for 2023-24 from the mining sector, with only Rs 1,500 crore collected until December 2023.
MDOs who failed to meet targets have had their salaries withheld until further notice. This decision was made during a district-wise review of revenue collection, revealing subpar performances in most districts. The concerned officers have been instructed to intensify efforts, focusing on combating illegal mining activities and improving revenue collection. Parmar Ravi Manubhai, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Mines and Geology Department, emphasized the need for officials to meet their targets, directing them to expedite revenue collections.
The department aims to initiate legal action and impose penalties on those engaging in illegal mining activities, focusing on districts like Jamui, Nawada, Sheohar, Sheikhpura, Jehanabad, Kaimur, Rohtas, and Bhagalpur. The Bihar government is optimistic that revenue generation will improve in the remaining months of the current fiscal year, highlighting the significance of mining activities as a revenue source for the state. Over the years, Bihar has witnessed a substantial increase in revenue collection from mines and minerals, showcasing the potential of sustainable mining practices.
