Ranchi, August 21: Union Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, has launched a sharp attack on the Hemant Soren government of Jharkhand for opposing the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026. He asserted that this bill would strengthen the state’s economy, curb illegal mining, and create new job opportunities.
Speaking in Ranchi, Seth emphasized that the MMDRA Bill aims to enhance the economic condition of the state, transform its fortune and image, and improve infrastructure. He noted that when the bill was discussed in Parliament, it was passed, granting states greater economic power.
Comparing the mining revenues of Jharkhand and Odisha, he stated, “So far, only 11 mines have been auctioned in Jharkhand, with no operational mines. In contrast, Odisha has auctioned 79 mines, with 35 currently operational. During the UPA’s tenure, Jharkhand earned approximately ₹4,662 crore in revenue over ten years, while under the Modi government, the state has generated ₹33,494 crore in the last decade.”
Seth claimed that if illegal mining is completely halted in Jharkhand, the state’s revenue could reach ₹3 lakh crore. He cited Odisha as an example, highlighting that mining revenue increased by 1051 percent after the BJP government took over compared to the UPA government. He questioned why Jharkhand could not achieve similar results.
He stated, “Jharkhand can also generate around ₹3 lakh crore in revenue; it just requires the willpower. God has blessed Jharkhand with abundant resources. If the Chief Minister wants to protest, he should do so against illegal mining, and I will stand with him. If illegal mining continues, where will the revenue come from?”
The Union Minister argued that this bill would provide the state government with more authority and economic strength, thereby accelerating development projects. He accused the Hemant Soren government of opposing the bill for political reasons, despite it being in the best interest of Jharkhand.
Seth concluded by stating that Jharkhand is rich in mineral resources, but due to a lack of proper policy and willpower, the state is not reaping the benefits. The MMDRA Amendment Bill 2026 promises a transparent auction process, strict control over illegal mining, and increased employment opportunities for local residents.
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