Punjab Introduces New Legal Framework for Mines and Minerals Sector to Attract Investment

Lahore: To attract international investment and modernize the mining sector, the Punjab government has decided to introduce a comprehensive new legal framework for minerals and mining.

The **Punjab Mines and Minerals Bill 2025** has been presented in the Punjab Assembly, aiming to establish a modern licensing system for mining operations.

Under the bill, a **Licensing Authority** will be constituted with powers to issue, suspend, and revoke mining licenses. A dedicated **Mines and Minerals Force** will also be created to curb illegal mining activities.

According to the bill’s text, the Director General (DG) will serve as the senior officer of the Mines and Minerals Force, and all officers—except the DG and senior officials—will be required to wear uniforms. The force will also have the authority to make arrests.

Additionally, **Mines and Minerals Police Stations** will be established, and **Special Courts** will be set up to deal with mining-related cases. Decisions of these special courts may be challenged in the Sessions Court.

The bill also proposes the formation of an **Exploration Promotion Division**, which will develop a comprehensive geological database. It includes provisions for bidding procedures and penalties for violations. Once passed, the new law will replace several existing mining-related legislations.

The objective of the **Punjab Mines and Minerals Bill 2025** is to provide legal certainty, attract domestic and foreign investment, and align the province’s regulatory framework with national and international standards.

The bill emphasizes the importance of the mining sector as a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and industrial development. It aims to enhance transparency, strengthen regulatory oversight, and promote environmentally and scientifically responsible mining practices across Punjab.