Wed Sep 04 20:26:59 UTC 2024: – Andhra Pradesh has seen multiple changes in sand policies over the past decade
– The current government introduced a free sand policy in July 2024
– Previous governments have been accused of undervaluing the revenue potential from sand
– Estimates show losses of billions of rupees due to illegal sand mining and policy changes
– Public Interest Litigation filed regarding illegal sand mining near government offices in 2019
– Various policies, including entrusting sand supply to Self Help Groups, auctioning sand reaches, and free sand supply, have been implemented and changed by different governments
– There is a discrepancy in revenue estimates from sand auctions and the actual potential revenue for the State
– The National Green Tribunal imposed a fine on the State government for illegal sand mining near important government offices
– Changes in sand policies have resulted in losses for the State and an undervaluation of the revenue potential from mineral resources.

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