Andhra Cabinet Approves New Sand Policy, Repeal of AP Land Titling Act

The Andhra Pradesh State Cabinet approved a new sand policy and repeal of the AP Land Titling Act in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu at the Secretariat.

They plan to table the bill to repeal the Land Titling Act in the upcoming July 22 Assembly session.

The Ministers also approved loans totaling Rs 5,200 crore for civil supplies and agriculture, emphasising the need to simplify the paddy procurement system.

Information and Public Relations Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy explained that the AP Titling Authority scrapped the Act due to concerns about ineligible Title Registration Officers (TROs) and lack of civil court jurisdiction in disputes, requiring direct High Court intervention.

The Cabinet also scrapped the previous sand policy and ordered free sand distribution while suspending agreements with private operators.

A new sand policy for 2024 aims to ensure affordability, transparency, and environmental compliance.

Chief Minister Naidu urged ministers to avoid involvement in sand operations to protect their reputation amid a deficit budget, emphasising efficient department management.