The Punjab Mines and Minerals Bill 2025 was presented in the Punjab Assembly on Tuesday, setting out a new and comprehensive legal framework to regulate the province’s mining industry and eliminate illegal extraction activities. The Punjab Mines and Minerals Bill 2025 aims to ensure transparency, sustainable development, and stronger enforcement across the mining sector.
According to the proposed legislation, a Licensing Authority will be established to oversee the issuance, suspension, and termination of mining licenses in Punjab. The bill also proposes the formation of a dedicated Mining and Minerals Force tasked with preventing illegal mining operations across the province. Headed by the Director General, this specialized force will have the power to make arrests, wear official uniforms, and operate through newly established Mining and Minerals Police Stations to strengthen field enforcement.
To enhance judicial efficiency, the bill introduces special courts dedicated to mining and mineral-related cases, with appeals to be heard in the Sessions Court. It also envisions the creation of an Exploration Promotion Division, which will develop a detailed geological database to support mineral exploration, investment, and policy planning.
The proposed law further lays down procedures for transparent bidding, imposes strict fines and penalties for violations, and seeks to repeal outdated mining laws once enacted. This marks a major step toward modernizing Punjab’s resource governance and attracting responsible investment.
Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz met with US Consul General Stetson Sanders in Lahore, inviting American investors to explore the vast mineral and industrial potential of Punjab. During the meeting, she highlighted the province’s cultural diversity, rich heritage, and growing tourism sector, describing Punjab as an emerging global investment hub.
The Chief Minister also praised the deepening Pakistan-US partnership and expressed her commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, technology, and sustainable development. The US Consul General thanked Maryam Nawaz for her warm hospitality and appreciated Punjab’s e-business initiative, calling it a promising step toward enhancing economic activity and attracting global investors.
