Bhubaneswar, Nov 21: The Odisha Cabinet on Friday approved the enactment of the Odisha Minerals (Prevention of Illegal Mining and Regulation of Trading, Transportation & Storage) Rules, 2025, introducing a strengthened legal framework to curb illegal mining in the state.

The new rules will replace the Odisha Minerals Rules of 2007, which have been in force for nearly two decades.

Chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, the Cabinet cleared the proposal submitted by the Steel and Mines Department to overhaul the existing regulatory structure. The updated rules aim to prevent illegal mining, theft, and smuggling of minerals while ensuring stricter oversight of possession, storage, trading, and transportation.

According to the government, the Odisha Minerals Rules–2025 are designed to create a more efficient and effective mineral governance system, enabling seamless operations for mining lessees and supporting the state’s broader vision of Viksit Odisha. The framework prioritizes transparency, compliance, and smoother business processes.

“The proposed rules will establish a more comprehensive legal mechanism to prevent illegal mining and regulate the lawful trading, storage, and movement of minerals across the state,” the government stated.