Amaravati, October 17: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu directed officials to conduct a comprehensive study on the state’s mineral wealth and develop a value-addition plan to increase revenue. During a review meeting on the Mines Department and Free Sand Policy, Naidu emphasized that value addition is key to maximizing state income, similar to models adopted by states like Odisha, which earns over ₹50,000 crore annually from minerals. Andhra Pradesh, he said, could generate an additional ₹20,000–₹30,000 crore through a clear vision plan.

The Mines Department informed that it has targeted ₹3,320 crore revenue for FY 2025–26, marking a 34% rise from the previous year. Major minerals like manganese contribute over 72% of this income. The Chief Minister instructed that pending 6,500 mining applications be cleared promptly and called for satellite and drone-based monitoring of mining operations to track permits, extractions, and compliance in real-time.

Highlighting social equity, Naidu ordered the formulation of a special mining lease policy for the Vaddera community, proposing 15% reservation in mining allocations for Vadderas and related societies. He directed officials to offer 50% concession on seigniorage and premium fees, enabling the community to grow as MSMEs linked to the mining sector. Naidu stressed that this initiative should ensure economic empowerment of backward classes through sustainable resource use.

On the free sand policy, the Chief Minister reaffirmed that its benefits must reach the common people directly. He instructed strict enforcement to prevent misuse and ensure transparent sand supply. Officials reported that 66.5 lakh metric tonnes of sand had been stockpiled, with 43 lakh metric tonnes currently available across stock points. Naidu ordered regular inspections, minimal transportation costs, and tighter CCTV surveillance at interstate routes to ensure accountability.