The Ministry of Mines is set to launch the second tranche of limestone block auctions in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, 12 May, at Srinagar, according to an official release on Monday, 11 May.
The auction marks another step towards unlocking the mineral potential of Jammu and Kashmir and strengthening its contribution to the vision of Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the Ministry of Mines said in the release.
Under Tranche II, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, will offer 12 limestone blocks for auction.
These blocks are located across Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch districts. They include both newly identified blocks and blocks being re-auctioned under a second attempt.
According to the ministry, the move reflects the Government’s commitment towards optimal resource utilisation and sustained industry participation in the Union Territory’s mineral sector.
The launch event will be held in Srinagar in the presence of Piyush Goyal, Secretary, Ministry of Mines.
Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, along with senior officials from the Ministry and the UT Government, will also attend the event.
The ministry said the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir Government share a commitment towards accelerating mineral development, industrial growth and inclusive economic progress in the Union Territory.
The limestone blocks are broadly categorised under UNFC G3 and G4 stages of exploration, indicating promising geological potential with substantial industrial-grade limestone deposits.
Limestone is a key raw material for sectors such as cement, construction and infrastructure. The auctioned blocks are therefore expected to support industrial growth and economic development in the region.
The auction will be conducted under the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015, as amended.
The process has been designed to be transparent, competitive and aligned with global best practices. Bidding will be conducted through a digital e-auction platform.
The Ministry of Mines said it remains committed to promoting scientific and sustainable mining practices.
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