Maharashtra's New Sand Policy: Free Gharkul Sand, Auction Sales, Green Focus

• Maharashtra's new sand policy (2025) offers free sand (up to 5 brass) to Gharkul housing scheme beneficiaries, reserving 10% of sand stock for them.
• The policy shifts sand sales from the depot method to an auction system to enhance transparency and curb illegal transportation.
• It promotes artificial sand, mandating 20% usage in government and semi-government constructions within three years to conserve natural resources.
• A simplified e-auction system is introduced for sand blocks, alongside provisions for traditional hand-dive mining and sand extraction from flood-affected agricultural lands.
• Stricter penalties are imposed for illegal sand transportation (Rs. 1 lakh fine for tractors), and Tehsildars face action if sand is not delivered to Gharkul beneficiaries within 15 days.

Why It Matters: New sand policy offers free sand to poor, increases transparency, and protects environment.