“Illegal mining has become a huge problem in Madhya Pradesh as the stakes are too high and those involved get huge monetary returns by indulging in this activity.” This was pointed out by state chief secretary Avani Vaish during an informal interaction with a group of media-persons at the State Academy of Administration here on Sunday afternoon.

The chief secretary, who retires at the end of April, stressed the need for joint operation against the illegal miners and said there should be a coordinated initiative by revenue, police and forest department officers whenever any raid is required to be conducted to stop illegal mining.