Maharashtra Waives Mineral Royalties to Aid Flood-Hit Farmers and Families
Maharashtra's Revenue Minister, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, has announced a relief package for farmers and individuals affected by recent heavy rains and floods. The state will provide soil, silt, murum, and gravel free of charge to restore eroded agricultural land. Additionally, royalty charges have been waived for up to five brass of minor minerals to repair houses, cattle sheds, farms, and wells.
The Revenue Department has issued an official circular exempting farmers from paying royalty charges for these minor minerals. District Collectors have been directed to ensure the full and accurate implementation of this exemption. This decision aims to aid farmers whose fields were washed away or severely damaged during the natural calamities. It is expected to help them restore their fields for cultivation without additional financial burden.
The exemption also extends to individuals affected by natural disasters. They can use up to five brass of minor minerals royalty-free for repairing their homes, cattle stalls, farms, and wells. However, the specific criteria for identifying these individuals and the conditions for mineral use have not been explicitly stated in the available information.
Maharashtra's government has taken steps to assist farmers and individuals affected by recent floods and heavy rains. By providing free materials and waiving royalty charges, they aim to help these individuals restore their lands and properties, thereby mitigating the impact of natural disasters.