The Union Ministry of Mines has initiated the second tranche of e-auctions for 12 limestone blocks located within Jammu and Kashmir, signaling a move to promote mineral development in the region. The launch represents the government’s efforts to foster transparency and encourage investment in the mining sector of the Union Territory and follows prior efforts to identify and prepare these resources for commercial exploitation.
Ministry of Mines Secretary Piyush Goyal unveiled the tranche at an official function, accentuating the ministry’s commitment to reforms aimed at streamlining processes and reinforcing transparency. These measures are designed to cultivate an environment conducive to business within the mining sector. The reforms and amendments are expected to facilitate smoother operations for companies engaged in mineral extraction and processing.
As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Secretary Goyal emphasized the considerable mineral wealth of Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the auction and subsequent operationalization of these limestone blocks will significantly advance the vision of a developed India, a developed Jammu and Kashmir, and a self-reliant India. This initiative aims to stimulate economic expansion, generate employment opportunities, and promote overall industrial progress in the region.
The second tranche encompasses a total of 12 limestone blocks situated across the districts of Anantnag, Rajouri, and Poonch. These blocks include both newly identified sites and those being re-auctioned in a second attempt, in accordance with the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015, as amended. The categorization of these blocks falls under the G3 and G4 stages of the United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC). Industry experts anticipate substantial interest from the cement and infrastructure sectors, which rely heavily on limestone.
During the launch event, Joint Secretary and Designated Officer, Farida M Naik, encouraged potential bidders to explore the mining prospects within the region. She underscored the critical role that these activities will play in propelling economic advancement, fostering employment, and enhancing socio-economic development throughout Jammu and Kashmir. The sale of tender documents is scheduled to commence on May 18, with a pre-bid conference slated for June 5 of this year.
The auction is being conducted in accordance with the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015. Building upon the foundation established by the first tranche, this initiative demonstrates a deliberate and measured approach focused on ensuring the optimal utilization of mineral resources. It also aims to bolster investor participation and confidence in the region’s mining sector.
A technical session took place during the event, featuring presentations by representatives from MECL (Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited), SBICAPs (SBI Capital Markets), and MSTC (Metal Scrap Trade Corporation Limited). These presentations provided detailed insights into various aspects of the auction process and the potential of the limestone blocks.
Srikant Sharma of MECL delivered a presentation highlighting the geological and mineral potential of the 12 limestone blocks. Pratin Sharma, Assistant Vice President of SBICAPs, provided clarity on the mineral auction process and the overall tender framework. Keshav Arora, Manager at MSTC, offered a demonstration of the e-auction portal, guiding prospective bidders through the online bidding process. These technical briefings were intended to equip potential investors with the information necessary to make informed decisions.
(PIB reported that) the auction is designed to be transparent and efficient, leveraging digital platforms to ensure broad participation. The government anticipates that this second tranche will further unlock the mineral wealth of Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to its economic resurgence and industrial development.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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