Second Tranche Of Limestone Block Auctions Launched In J&K

The blocks include both newly identified mines and those being re-auctioned under a second attempt process. Addressing the launch event, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, Piyush Goyal said the government has undertaken several reforms to simplify procedures, improve transparency and enhance ease of doing business in the mining sector. He stated that Jammu Kashmir possesses significant mineral potential and that operationalisation of these blocks could contribute to industrial development, employment generation and economic growth. The limestone blocks are categorised under G3 and G4 stages of the United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC) and are expected to draw interest from industries linked to cement and infrastructure development. Among the five blocks being auctioned under the first attempt are Kalindange, Naubug-Halan and Sop limestone blocks in Anantnag district, along with Dharamora and Faislabad blocks in Poonch district. The seven blocks being re-auctioned under the second attempt include Dooru Shahabad, Koot-Kapran and Wantrag limestone blocks in Anantnag, Rajpura in Poonch, and Darhal-Chittibatti, Khablian-Bharot-Danna and Lah Limestone Block-E in Rajouri district. The auction process is being conducted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015, as amended. During the technical session, representatives from Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), SBICAPs and MSTC gave presentations on the geological potential of the blocks, auction procedures and the e-auction platform. Joint Secretary and Designated Officer in the Ministry of Mines, Farida M. Naik, encouraged prospective bidders to explore investment opportunities in the region, highlighting the sector’s potential to support economic activity and employment generation. According to the Ministry, the sale of tender documents will begin on May 18, 2026, while the pre-bid conference is scheduled for June 5. The last date for purchase of tender documents is July 15 and bids can be submitted until July 21, 2026. (KNN Bureau)