The NDA government could bring about a turnaround in the mining sector in Andhra Pradesh, says Minister Kollu Ravindra

Mines Minister Kollu Ravindra inspects a granite quarry at Valasapalle near Madanapalle in Annamayya district on Thursday.

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Mines and Geology Kollu Ravindra said on Thursday (June 12, 2026) that the state’s mining sector was systematically weakened by political interference, harassment of mining operators and irregular practices that hampered legitimate operations during the tenure of the previous YSRCP government.

Speaking to the media after inspecting the granite quarry at Valasapalli on the outskirts of Madanapalle in Annamayya district, Mr. Ravindra alleged that during the YSRCP regime, several quarry owners were harassed with false cases, raids and coercive methods, while many others were forced to shut down their units. “Valuable natural resources have been ruthlessly exploited for vested interests, resulting in huge losses to the exchequer and the mining industry,” Mr Ravindra said.

The minister said the NDA government has initiated steps to expose the alleged irregularities by publishing White Papers and taking corrective measures to restore investor confidence. “Despite the damage to the mining sector over the previous years, a coalition government could lead it to a remarkable 40% increase in revenue. This suggests a turnaround in the sector’s fortunes,” he said.

Mr. Ravaindra reiterated that the NDA government is committed to bring all mining leases into productive use and transform Andhra Pradesh into a national model in the mining sector. Highlighting the mining potential of the Madanapalle region with significant deposits of quartz, limestone, granite and iron ore, the minister said efforts were underway to expand access to international markets.

The minister further accused the previous YSRCP government of “dispossessing” the Vaddera community by booking quarry leases. He warned that illegal mining will not be tolerated. “A dedicated vigilance mechanism monitors operations across the state. At the same time, the government never compromises on environmental guarantees,” he said.

Published – 12 Jun 2026 11:31 IST