Maharashtra Launches Policy to Promote Artificial Sand Use

In a significant step toward environmental sustainability and regulated construction practices, the Maharashtra government has approved a new policy to promote the use of artificial sand (manufactured sand or m-sand). The state cabinet, in a meeting held on May 13, 2025, decided to make m-sand compulsory for all construction works undertaken by government and semi-government agencies. This move aims to curb the rampant and environmentally damaging extraction of natural river sand.

Why in News?

The Maharashtra state cabinet approved a comprehensive policy to encourage the production and use of artificial sand in construction. The policy mandates the use of m-sand for all government projects and provides incentives to boost its production, while also addressing the menace of illegal sand mining in the state.

Objective & Purpose

• Reduce environmental degradation caused by natural sand mining.
• Promote sustainable construction by using manufactured sand (m-sand).
• Boost local industries through MSME recognition and subsidies.

Key Policy Highlights

• Mandatory Use: All government and semi-government construction projects must use m-sand.
• Crusher Installation: Permission for 50 crusher machines in each district; 1,500 across the state.
• Land Allotment: State land to be leased on a first-come, first-served basis for setting up m-sand crushers.
• MSME Status: Companies involved in artificial sand production will get MSME status.
• Royalty Reduction: Royalty for m-sand fixed at ₹200 per brass (compared to ₹600 per brass for natural sand).
• Transition Period: Existing stone crushers must shift to m-sand production within 3 years or face cancellation of their licenses.

Environmental Considerations

• Artificial sand will help conserve rivers and coastal ecosystems.
• Rocky terrain will be used for stone extraction, and pits will later be converted into water conservation ponds.
• Aligned with National Green Tribunal (NGT) mandates and earlier state commitments on environmental protection.

Background

• In 2014, NGT banned sand mining in coastal regions due to environmental concerns.
• Ban partially lifted in 2016 in selected districts after state government assurances.
• M-sand is made by crushing hard rocks (like granite) into fine particles, ensuring uniformity and strength in construction.