Minister for Natural Resources, Minerals and Mines T.K. Prabhu announced that strict new regulatory measures to curb illegal mining were being implemented and drone surveys would now be mandatory before and after quarry operations across Tamil Nadu.
He spoke to reporters following a government function here on Friday.
“We are continuously investigating the mineral resource looting that took place in quarries during the previous regime, and Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has issued clear directives to prevent mineral theft,” he added.
Outlining the new policy, the Minister stated that permission for any new quarry would be granted only after a comprehensive drone survey of the site. A follow up drone inspection would be conducted once the quarry lease expires.
“This process will enable us to detect over-exploitation and effectively curb illegal mining,” he explained, assuring that strict measures are in place to safeguard adjacent agricultural lands.
Mr. Prabhu noted that the government was actively consulting on fulfilling its election pledge to carve out Karaikudi as a new, separate district.
“The government will make a formal announcement regarding the creation of the Karaikudi district at an appropriate time,” he assured.
He highlighted that the Chief Minister was giving top priority to Sivagangai district and was ensuring rapid development across all four assembly constituencies.
“The district administration has briefed the Chief Minister regarding the long-pending Cauvery-Vaigai-Gundar river interlinking project, with an official decision expected soon,” he informed.
Subsequently, the Minister also inaugurated a new Sub-Registrar office building in Manamadurai, a new Primary Health Centre building in Sembanur, and two new classrooms at the Government Middle School in Kazhanivasal, Karaikudi.
Published – July 24, 2026 09:30 pm IST
