12 Limestone Blocks Across Anantnag, Rajouri, Poonch To Be Auctioned in Srinagar Event Tomorrow

Srinagar, May 11, KNT: The Ministry of Mines, Government of India, is set to launch the second tranche of auction of limestone blocks in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir on May 12, 2026, in Srinagar, marking another major step towards tapping the region’s mineral potential and accelerating industrial development in the Union Territory.

Officials said the fresh phase of auctions builds upon the earlier mineral block auction process initiated in Jammu and Kashmir and is aimed at strengthening the UT’s contribution towards the national vision of Government of India initiatives including “Viksit Bharat” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”

Under Tranche-II of the auction process, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir administration, will offer 12 limestone blocks for auction across different districts of the Union Territory.

The limestone blocks identified for auction are located in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district and the Pir Panjal districts of Rajouri and Poonch.

Officials said the tranche includes both newly identified mineral blocks as well as blocks being re-auctioned under a second attempt mechanism, reflecting the government’s emphasis on optimal utilization of mineral resources and sustained participation from industry stakeholders.

The launch programme scheduled in Srinagar will be attended by senior officials from both the Central Government and the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

According to officials, Piyush Goyal, Secretary in the Ministry of Mines, will grace the event, while Ashwani Kumar and other senior officials from the Ministry of Mines and the Jammu and Kashmir Government are also expected to participate.

Authorities said the event underlines the Centre and the Union Territory administration’s joint commitment towards expanding mineral development, promoting industrial growth, and ensuring inclusive economic progress in Jammu and Kashmir.

The limestone blocks identified for auction fall broadly under the UNFC G3 and G4 stages of exploration, indicating promising geological potential and the presence of substantial industrial-grade limestone reserves.

Officials said the identified resources are strategically important for sectors such as cement manufacturing, infrastructure development, and construction activities, all of which are expected to gain momentum from increased domestic mineral availability.

The government believes operationalization of these blocks can significantly contribute to industrial investment and employment generation in the region while also strengthening local economic activity.

The auction process is being conducted under the provisions of the Ministry of Mines framework governed by the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015, as amended from time to time.

Officials said the auction mechanism has been designed to remain transparent, competitive, and aligned with global standards, with the entire bidding process being carried out through a digital e-auction platform.

The Ministry of Mines reiterated its commitment towards promoting scientific, transparent, and sustainable mining practices in Jammu and Kashmir while ensuring responsible resource utilization.

Authorities said successful auction and subsequent operationalization of the limestone blocks are expected to generate substantial government revenue, create direct and indirect employment opportunities, strengthen industrial infrastructure, and contribute to long-term economic development in Jammu and Kashmir. [KNT]