Union Mines Ministry Launches Second E-Auction Tranche for 12 Limestone Blocks in J&K
Tender process to begin on May 18; blocks spread across Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch
SRINAGAR, May 12: The Union Ministry of Mines on Tuesday launched the second tranche of e-auction for 12 limestone blocks in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at accelerating mineral based industrial growth and attracting fresh investment to the Union Territory.
The tranche was formally launched in Srinagar by Mines Secretary Piyush Goyal, who underlined the Centre’s push for transparent and investor-friendly reforms in the mining sector. He said Jammu and Kashmir holds significant mineral reserves and their scientific utilisation can contribute to economic expansion, employment generation and industrial development.
According to an official PIB handout, the limestone blocks are located in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch districts. The package includes newly identified deposits as well as blocks being offered again under the second attempt provisions of the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015.
Officials said the blocks fall under G3 and G4 exploration stages of the United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC), making them attractive for cement manufacturing and infrastructure-related industries.
During the programme, Joint Secretary and Designated Officer Farida M Naik encouraged prospective bidders to explore mining opportunities in Jammu and Kashmir, stating that responsible mineral development can strengthen regional economic activity and create employment opportunities.
The ministry announced that sale of tender documents will commence from May 18, while the pre-bid conference has been scheduled for June 5.
The auction process is being conducted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015. Officials described the latest tranche as part of a broader strategy to ensure efficient utilisation of mineral resources while enhancing investor confidence.
A technical session held during the event featured presentations by Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), SBICAP Securities Limited and MSTC Limited on geological prospects, auction procedures and the online bidding platform.
