Some of the other key changes proposed: should inspect all explosive stores in their jurisdiction every three months, inspection reports should be sent to PESO and the district police.

• Onus for any theft/loss of munitions to fall on the licensee or “shot-firer” employed by him in a mine or quarry.

• Scientific marking and packaging of all explosives with manufacturers required to store explosives in the licensed premises only.

• Licensee required to submit his photograph and have a verification check while applying to the PESO.

• District authorities who issue the No Objection Certificate (NOC) to manufacturers will have authority to cancel it. The manufacturers, incidentally, objected to this saying district authorities could be “influenced by political pressure.” The objection has been overruled by PESO.

There is also a proposed amendment liberalising licensing norms: raising the manufacturing limit for a license from 5 to 25 kg; provision for provisional license; renewal for 10 years as against the earlier provision of two years. Officials say that this should be done simultaneously with strengthening the regulatory mechanism.All explosive consignments to be accompanied by two armed guards at the cost of the licensee. If the consignment is likely to pass through “sensitive areas,” armed guards provided by the District Police should accompany it. should inspect all explosive stores in their jurisdiction every three months, inspection reports should be sent to PESO and the district police.

• Onus for any theft/loss of munitions to fall on the licensee or “shot-firer” employed by him in a mine or quarry.

... contd.