Srinagar, October 15, 2025 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a high-level review meeting of the Mining Department at the Civil Secretariat to assess modernization initiatives, regulatory reforms, and digital surveillance measures in Jammu and Kashmir’s mining sector.
The meeting, attended by Deputy CM Surinder Kumar Choudhary, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and senior officials, featured a live demonstration of the Integrated Mining Surveillance System (IMSS) — a real-time digital monitoring platform developed with BISAG to track mining operations through GPS-enabled tools, e-Challan, and e-Market integration.
Officials informed that over 243 triggers for field verification have already been generated using vehicle tracking, GPS monitoring, and PoS-linked challaning to curb illegal mining.
Appreciating the initiative, CM Omar Abdullah directed developers to integrate the IMSS with the department’s portal and enable citizen participation through mobile-based complaint registration supported by satellite imagery.
He also called for the creation of a dedicated monitoring cell for continuous data oversight and instructed officials to categorize active and non-active mineral vendors.
Reviewing ongoing reforms under the SASCI 2025-26, the Chief Minister was informed about the adoption of an auction-based mineral allocation system, mine closure and rehabilitation provisions, and operationalization of the District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) to ensure mining revenues benefit local communities.
Stressing zero tolerance for illegal mining, Omar Abdullah said, “With modern tools available, any such activity is only possible through collusion at lower levels. The department must act decisively to eliminate this.”
He also reviewed ongoing exploration projects for sapphire, lithium, lignite, granite, and graphite, and directed strict compliance with environmental norms, especially in eco-sensitive zones.
Commending the Mining Department’s digital innovation, Omar Abdullah emphasized sustained focus on transparency, efficiency, and environmental responsibility in mineral management.
