J&K to host launch of maiden limestone block auction roadshow today
Jammu, Nov 23: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy will formally launch the first-ever auction of limestone mineral blocks in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir at Convention Centre Jammu on Monday, November 24, 2025.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary will represent Jammu and Kashmir government in the event, reflecting a strong Centre-State partnership and the strategic importance of this initiative for the region.
A total of seven limestone blocks, covering approximately 314 hectares, have been identified across the districts of Anantnag, Rajouri, and Poonch.
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 auction will be conducted under subsections (4) and (5) of Section 11 of the MMDR Act, enabling the central government to facilitate the process in cases where State or Union Territory administrations face procedural limitations.
This initiative, as per the Ministry of Mines, is expected to pave the way for job creation, revenue growth, industrial expansion, and new economic opportunities for local communities — advancing Jammu and Kashmir’s development trajectory and contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Ministry of Mines, in an official statement, has described the event as a “milestone that marks a significant step in advancing the mining reforms introduced under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR 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.
“This approach (central government facilitating the State or UT administrations in tackling procedural limitations) reflects the principles of cooperative federalism, ensuring timely implementation and reform execution,” the official statement mentioned.
The Ministry of Mines, in this connection, also reiterated the commitment to “carrying out a transparent, technology-enabled and competitive auction process, with a strong focus on sustainable mining aligned with national environmental guidelines.”
