Andhra Pradesh, located in Southern India, is known for its rich mineral resources also popular as RATNA GARBHA, including natural stones such as granite, marble, limestone, and sandstone. The state has a significant presence in the natural stone mining sector, contributing to domestic demand & exports with world popular exclusive colour and black granite varieties.
Black Galaxy, Black Pearl & Kanigiri Black from Prakasam district, G10, G20 from Chittoor district along with many other black stone varieties Kadapa and Bethamcharla stone dominates the range of black stones from India.
Wide range of colour granites like popular Srikakulam Blue granite varieties, Brown colour varieties and White colour range like world famous White Galaxy, Moon White, River White, Aspin White, Thunder White, Fareast White, Viscont white and many Grey and Beige colour varieties are available across the state. Occupation of Stone mining/processing is like a tradition in the state from centuries. Natural stone was used for all construction activities like temples, public utility structures and building in the state which stood as symbol of heritage and culture.
Overview of the current natural stone mining/ quarrying/processing scenario in Andhra Pradesh:
Granite Mining: Andhra Pradesh is one of the major producers of granite in India. Granite mining is a prominent industry, with numerous quarries and processing units spread across different regions. Granite from Andhra Pradesh is known for its aesthetic appeal, uniform quality & has many applications in infrastructure, construction, monuments, and interiors and landscaping.
Marble and Limestone Mining: While not as significant as granite, marble and limestone mining also occur in Andhra Pradesh. These natural stones are utilized in construction, flooring, cladding, and other decorative purposes. Few among them is Kadapa and Bethmacherla natural stone varieties which saw ages of durability.
Regulatory Framework: Mining activities in Andhra Pradesh are governed by various regulations and policies issued by the state government and the Ministry of Mines at the central level. Compliance with environmental norms, safety standards, and labor regulations is mandatory for mining operations which are the toughest, stringent and costly affairs in the state unlike Rajasthan and Karnataka State Mining Policies.
Export Market: Andhra Pradesh's natural stones, particularly granite, are exported to countries around the world. The state has a well-established export market for its natural stone products, prominent ports network, bulk cargo, container handling facilities and transit facilities contributing to foreign exchange earnings.
Employment and Economic Impact: Stone mining provides employment opportunities to a significant number of people, both directly in mining activities and indirectly in associated sectors such as transportation, processing, and trading. Stands second in creating rural employment after agriculture. The mining/processing industry also contributes to the state's economy through revenue generation in several forms and nature and also contributes in infrastructure development.
Challenges: Like any mining/quarrying activities, natural stone mining faces several challenges such as several high taxations in many forms, environmental (CFE and CFO) annual fees, land acquisition and legal issues, extraordinary regulatory rules and compliances, market dynamics and fluctuations. Consistent socio and political influence on the mining activities.
Government Initiatives: The government of Andhra Pradesh could have introduced specific policies or initiatives to promote sustainable mining practices, support the growth of the mining sector, and address the concerns of local communities and stakeholders. These initiatives could include measures for environmental conservation, social welfare, and infrastructure development in mining-affected areas.
