The Rajasthani government has introduced innovative drone technology for volumetric evaluations and mineral management, marking a major step towards modernizing its mining industry.
From April 1, all minor mineral leaseholders in the state will be required to use drone or aerial surveys to map their lease areas, including a 100-meter buffer zone.
This initiative, which was introduced by T. Ravikant, the State Principal Secretary of Mines and Petroleum, is expected to improve transparency, optimize operations, and resolve disparities within the mining industry.
Driving Transparency with Advanced Technology
The decision to require drone surveys is in line with the goal of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma to incorporate contemporary technologies into the mining sector.
By adopting such innovative tools, the government aims to ensure a more transparent and accountable framework for mineral management.
Ravikant emphasized that the reports generated through drone surveys will provide a more accurate depiction of mining activities, helping identify whether leaseholders are adhering to legal guidelines or engaging in unauthorized practices.
Also read: India’s path to secure and self reliant drone technology.
The introduction of drone-driven volumetric assessment is also expected to resolve long standing disputes in the sector. With precise data on the volume of minerals extracted, the system will significantly reduce discrepancies and ensure compliance with mining regulations.
A One-Time Settlement Scheme for Legacy Discrepancies
The government has introduced a one-time compensation plan to resolve discrepancies between data from drone surveys and previously filed mining reports. The goal of this effort is to resolve previous issues and provide leaseholders a fresh start, opening the door for future activities to run more smoothly.
The need of educating leaseholders about this revolutionary approach has been emphasised by the Chief Minister. Workshops and educational programs will be held to help stakeholders comprehend the advantages and new requirements of implementing drone technology.
Engaging Experts to Educate Leaseholders
To ensure a smooth transition to this new system, the government plans to bring together experts, including drone manufacturers and technology specialists. These professionals will conduct presentations to familiarize leaseholders with the updated rules, regulations, and the practical applications of drone surveys. By engaging directly with the leaseholders, the government aims to bridge knowledge gaps and facilitate the adoption of this modern approach.
The presentations will also highlight how drone-driven assessments can reduce operational inefficiencies, enhance compliance, and ultimately benefit the leaseholders in the long run.
To oversee the successful implementation of the drone-based system, the government has appointed B.S. Sodha, Additional Director of Mines in Jaipur, as the nodal officer for the program. Sodha will coordinate with stakeholders and ensure the smooth execution of this initiative.
The Role of Drone Technology in Modernizing Mining
The use of drones in the mining sector is a game-changer. These advanced tools offer exceptional precision in mapping and volumetric assessments, providing accurate data on mineral extraction and lease area boundaries. With their ability to survey large areas quickly and efficiently, drones eliminate the need for traditional, time-consuming methods.
For Rajasthan, a state with a significant mining footprint, this technology represents a leap forward in ensuring sustainable and responsible mining practices. By leveraging drones, the government can monitor activities more effectively, detect illegal operations, and maintain a comprehensive record of mining activities.
Looking Ahead
As the April 1 deadline approaches, the Rajasthan government is set to transform the mining landscape through its forward-thinking policies. The integration of drone technology, combined with a one-time settlement scheme and comprehensive stakeholder engagement, signals a new era of transparency and efficiency in the sector.