In Jammu and Kashmir, the first-ever auction of limestone mineral blocks will be formally launched in Jammu today. The landmark event will be held at the Convention Centre Jammu in the afternoon which will be led by Union Minister for Coal & Mines, G. Kishan Reddy and graced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, reflecting a strong Centre-State partnership and the strategic importance of this initiative for the region.

 

 

Akashvani’s correspondent reports that a total of seven limestone blocks, covering approximately 314 hectares, have been identified across Anantnag, Rajouri, and Poonch districts for auction. 

 

 

 

This milestone marks a significant step in advancing the mining reforms introduced under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act in 2015. It is also the first mining block auction taking place in the Union Territory since these reforms, signalling a shift toward transparency, competitiveness, and sustainable development in the mineral sector.

 

 

 

Categorised under UNFC G3 and G4 exploration stages, these deposits hold considerable potential for high-quality limestone critical to cement manufacturing, construction, and other industrial applications. The Ministry of Mines is committed to carrying out a transparent, technology-enabled and competitive auction process, with a strong focus on sustainable mining aligned with national environmental guidelines.

 

 

 

This initiative is expected to pave the way for job creation, revenue growth, industrial expansion, and new economic opportunities for local communities – advancing J&K’s development trajectory and contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047