Srinagar, Mar 5: The Directorate of Geology and Mining, Jammu and Kashmir, has directed all treasuries in the Union Territory not to release payments to contractors or executing agencies involved in development works unless they produce a valid Royalty Clearance Certificate (RCC).
According to an official communication issued by Director Geology and Mining S.P. Rukwal, the directive has been sent to the Director of Accounts & Treasuries, Finance Department (Jammu and Kashmir) following instructions issued during a review meeting held on February 27, 2026.
The communication states that several departments and agencies, including the National Highways Authority of India, Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Public Works Department (Roads and Buildings), Jammu and Kashmir, Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Jammu and Kashmir, Border Roads Organisation, Jal Shakti Department, Jammu and Kashmir, National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, Airports Authority of India and Konkan Railway Corporation Limited, have already been instructed not to release payments to firms or contractors for works involving the consumption of minor minerals unless the RCC is obtained from the Geology and Mining Department.
The Directorate has now asked the Finance Department to issue necessary directions to all treasuries across Jammu and Kashmir to strictly ensure that no payment is processed in favour of any contractor or agency without the mandatory certificate.
Officials said the measure is aimed at ensuring proper regulation of minor mineral extraction and compliance with royalty rules in development projects across the Union Territory. (KNC)
