Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Aug 1: The Goa government has notified a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to regulate the import of minor minerals from outside the State for storage, processing and subsequent export through Goa, introducing a structured permission mechanism to strengthen monitoring of mineral movement.

The SOP has been issued by Director of Mines and Geology Narayan Gad under Rule 47A of the Goa Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1985.

Under the new procedure, any person intending to import minor minerals into Goa for export will be required to obtain prior permission from the Competent Officer. Permission will be granted only after payment of the prescribed processing fee under the Rules.

The notification also makes it mandatory for individuals or entities intending to store or process imported minor minerals within the State to obtain separate approval from the Competent Officer.

Applicants will have to furnish details of the proposed storage location, the type and quantity of the mineral and secure all necessary clearances from the concerned authorities before approval is granted.

For the onward transport of stored or processed minerals, applicants must apply for a transit permit or export permit, providing details such as the nature, type and quantity of the mineral, the mode of transport and the destination.

In the case of processed minerals, applicants will also have to disclose the quantity processed and the amount of waste generated.

The SOP empowers the Competent Officer to issue transit or export permits after conducting necessary inquiries, following which transit passes will be issued.

To enhance monitoring and ensure compliance, the Competent Officer has also been authorised to direct applicants to install weighbridges or impose additional conditions considered necessary for effective regulation of imported minor minerals.