JAMMU, November 23, 2025 : In a historic milestone for Jammu & Kashmir’s mineral sector, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy will inaugurate the first-ever auction of limestone blocks in the Union Territory on Monday, marking a major step toward transparency, competitiveness, and sustainable mining.
The launch, accompanied by a high-level roadshow in Jammu, signals the beginning of a new phase under the mining reforms introduced through the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act), 2015.
First Auction Under MMDR in J&K
This will be the first mining block auction conducted in J&K since the MMDR Act came into effect, an important indication of the UT’s integration into the national mineral reform framework.
Officials said the initiative showcases cooperative federalism, with the Centre stepping in under Section 11 (4) & (5) of the Act to expedite the auction where procedural constraints exist at the UT level.
Seven Limestone Blocks Identified
A total of seven limestone blocks—spanning 314 hectares—have been identified across:
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Anantnag
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Rajouri
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Poonch
These blocks fall under G3 (Prospecting) and G4 (Reconnaissance) stages of the UNFC classification, indicating promising deposits suitable for:
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Cement manufacturing
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Construction
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Other industrial applications
Officials noted that these reserves hold significant potential for attracting investment and strengthening J&K’s industrial ecosystem.
Tech-Driven, Sustainable Auction Process
The Union Ministry of Mines has emphasised a transparent, technology-driven bidding process, ensuring competitive participation while adhering to national environmental safeguards.
The approach prioritises:
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Sustainable mining practices
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Environmental compliance
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Efficient resource utilisation
Boost to Jobs, Revenue & Industrial Growth
The limestone block auction is expected to:
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Generate new employment opportunities
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Boost revenue for J&K’s exchequer
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Encourage industrial expansion
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Create local economic opportunities
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Contribute to Viksit Bharat 2047, the national development vision
Officials said the initiative would play a transformative role in accelerating J&K’s development, both in mining and related sectors.
