The Punjab government has taken a major step to promote the mining sector, proposing to allow regulated mineral activities even in reserved forests and protected areas.
The move aims to unlock untapped mineral potential while aligning provincial laws with the national mineral policy to support economic growth, employment, and revenue generation.
Three Amendment Bills Tabled in Punjab Assembly
On Monday, the Punjab government presented three separate but similar amendment bills in the Punjab Assembly to revise outdated laws related to forests, protected areas, and wildlife.
The proposed legislation includes amendments to:
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Forests Act 1927 under the Forests (Amendment) Act 2026
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Punjab Protected Areas Act 2020 under the Protected Areas (Amendment) Act 2026
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Punjab Wildlife Act 1974 under the Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2026
Legal Barriers Delayed Mineral Projects
According to the text of the proposed bills, valuable mineral resources located in forest areas could not be utilized due to legal ambiguities and regulatory hurdles.
Officials stated that unclear laws caused delays and suspension of several mining projects, preventing the province from fully benefiting from its natural resources.
Regulated Mining in Forest and Protected Areas
The proposed amendments seek to establish a legal framework allowing mining activities in forested and protected zones for projects of national and economic importance.
Under the proposal:
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Mining will be permitted through regulated approvals
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Forest land may be legally allocated for mineral extraction
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Environmental and regulatory oversight will be strengthened
The government maintains that a regulated system is necessary to curb illegal mining while enabling lawful development.
Government Cites Economic and Employment Benefits
Punjab officials argue that controlled use of mineral resources is essential for boosting the economy, job creation, and provincial revenue.
They believe the new framework will encourage investment in the mining sector while ensuring alignment with broader development goals.
Bills Referred to Standing Committee
The Punjab Assembly has referred all three bills to the relevant standing committee for a two-month review.
After committee approval, the bills will be brought back to the assembly for passage, followed by final approval from the Governor of Punjab.
