Minister calls for stricter enforcement against illegal mining and excise violations

Minister for Excise, Mines, and Geology Kollu Ravindra on Friday (May 22, 2026) directed officials to tighten enforcement against illegal sand mining, liquor irregularities, and violations in mineral transport across the State.

Addressing a press conference here, after holding a review meeting with the officials, Minister Ravindra said that the coalition government is ensuring transparent governance in sand distribution and excise administration, with strict monitoring of free sand policy implementation and district-level committees under the District Collectors.

The Minister said that around three lakh tonnes of sand had been supplied in the district, with nearly ₹30 crore in revenue foregone to benefit the public. He said that desiltation points and sand reaches were opened to streamline supply while preventing malpractice through continuous checks.

Mr. Ravindra further highlighted ongoing mining initiatives, including gold extraction at Jonnagiri through private agencies and proposed tenders in the Ramagiri region. “Andhra Pradesh possesses vast mineral wealth, including iron ore, quartz deposits, and rare earth elements. We have plans for mineral parks in Visakhapatnam,” the Minister said.

Criticising the previous YSRCP government, the Minister said it had grossly violated excise administration. “Now, the coalition government has introduced online systems, quality testing laboratories, and wider availability of liquor brands while focusing on transparency, investment inflows, and employment generation across the State,” he said.