The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has estimated that Jammu and Kashmir has nearly one billion tonnes of limestone reserves, Additional Secretary in the Union Ministry of Mines Sanjay Lohiya said. He added that the Union Territory also has strong potential for other important minerals, which the J&K government plans to explore for the benefit of its people.Sanjay Lohiya expressed satisfaction that Jammu and Kashmir has now entered India’s mineral block auction system.
He spoke during the launch of the UT’s first limestone block e-auction and roadshow in Jammu. He said the Centre will support J&K in accelerating mineral exploration, development, and investments in the mining sector.Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary jointly launched the e-auction of seven limestone blocks covering about 314 hectares in Anantnag, Rajouri, and Poonch.
Lohiya explained that while other states have auctioned nearly 600 mineral blocks since changes to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act in 2015, J&K lacked experience. After discussions, the Centre agreed to assist the UT in auctioning its first seven limestone blocks.He also pointed out that transporting cement to J&K from other parts of the country is expensive due to distance. Local production using these limestone reserves could meet rising demand more efficiently.Lohiya said more limestone blocks will be auctioned in the second round, which will bring major changes to J&K’s mining sector.
He added that mining not only creates jobs but also leads to industrial growth and higher government revenue. He said GSI has also found deposits of lithium, copper, titanium, iron, coal, and gold in J&K, though their economic viability still needs evaluation.Anil Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary of the J&K Mining Department, said the e-auction of the first seven blocks is expected to generate around ₹500 crore for the UT. He said 24 more landform blocks are being processed and will be auctioned by March next year, likely adding another ₹1,500 crore in revenue.Singh also highlighted major technological upgrades in the sector.
J&K has introduced an Integrated Mining Surveillance System (IMSS) that uses satellite images to monitor illegal mining. The system is expected to be fully operational by January 2026. Citizens will soon be able to file mining-related complaints through mobile apps.For the future, the department is exploring other minerals such as lithium, sapphire, graphite, granite, copper, and shallow gas.
Detailed geological mapping and feasibility studies are underway to ensure responsible and sustainable mining practices.Singh thanked the Ministry of Mines for recommending ₹100 crore for developing command-and-control centres, rapid-response infrastructure, and scientific mining practices.
He added that the UT is finalizing the creation of the Mineral Exploration Trust to promote safe and scientific mineral exploration across Jammu and Kashmir.
