Bihar dept. to form dedicated force to check illegal mining, transportation of minerals

The Bihar government’s Mines and Geology Department will recruit 1,000 constables, on the lines of the State Prohibition and Excise Department, to curb illegal mining, transportation and storage of minerals.

Announcing the decision on Thursday, Mines and Geology Minister Pramod Kumar said the department has prepared a proposal to recruit 1,000 Khana Sipahis (constables). “A dedicated force will not only bring transparency in mining activities but also help the department conduct independent raids without relying on the local police,” Mr. Kumar told reporters.

He said the department currently depends on the local police to conduct raids against illegal mining, transportation and storage. “This also places an additional burden on the district administration, which is already responsible for maintaining law and order,” the Minister said, adding that the recruitment will be made through the appropriate commission, while eligibility criteria, training and other modalities are being finalised.