Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has directed district authorities to strictly adhere to rules while issuing quarry permits for minor minerals.

In a letter to Collectors and District Magistrates, Additional Chief Secretary of Steel and Mines Deoranjan Kumar Singh asked them to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Odisha Minor Mineral Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2025.

He clarified quarry permits can be issued only for Central or State government and public purpose projects, and not for private projects.

The department also emphasised only the Mining Officer (for non-forest land) and the Divisional Forest Officer (for forest land) are authorised to grant such permits.

The letter warned of strict action, including disciplinary proceedings, against officials in case of any deviation from the prescribed norms.

Singh further directed Collectors to ensure that permits are granted strictly as per rules to maintain a steady supply of minor minerals for government and public projects, ensure timely completion, and safeguard government revenue.

Notably, the Odisha Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2016 were amended on November 28, 2025, to facilitate smoother execution of government and public purpose projects.