The government is planning to replace the existing Explosives Act of 1884.
To further promote ease of doing business, the government will replace the existing Explosives Act of 1884 with a new law.
Government introduces the draft Explosives Bill 2024 to replace the Explosives Act, of 1884.
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has proposed increasing the fines for violating of regulations.
Under the new law, If a license holder, violates regulations he/she could face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of Rs 1,00,000, or both.
Under the provisions of the new bill, if someone is found in possession, using, selling, or transporting any explosive, they may face imprisonment for up to two years, a fine of Rs 50,000, or both.
The government will also designate an authority, which will be responsible for issuing licenses for the manufacture, use, sale, import, and export of any explosive material.
At present, the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) is responsible for the manufacturing, possession, use, sale, import, and export of any explosive material.
The Explosives Act of 1884 was enacted by the British government to regulate the manufacture, storage, possession, use, sale, import, and export of explosives.
The Explosives Act of 1884 gave power to authorities to conduct inspections of premises where explosives are stored or used to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
