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.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Maharashtra Launches Policy to Promote Artificial Sand Use
Policy Name	Maharashtra Artificial Sand Promotion Policy (2025)
Date Announced	May 13, 2025
Mandatory Usage	For all government and semi-government construction projects
Crushers Approved	50 per district; 1,500 total
Royalty on M-sand	₹200 per brass
Royalty on Natural Sand	₹600 per brass
Industries Benefits	MSME status, subsidies, concessions
Environmental Benefit	Stops river sand mining, supports sustainable development