Union Minister, CM Omar launch e-auction of Limestone Blocks
Jammu Tawi, Nov 24: Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy on Monday congratulated Jammu and Kashmir for formally joining India’s “mineral auction map” as he and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah jointly launched the e-auction of limestone blocks in Jammu.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Reddy said seven limestone blocks have been opened for auction, marking J&K’s first entry into the national competitive bidding ecosystem. “States across the country have risen above political differences and are collectively working for youth empowerment,” he said, adding that transparency-driven reforms have reshaped India’s mining sector since the Supreme Court’s 2014 directive.
The Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mining reforms have ensured 100% transparency, enabling states to improve ease of doing business and boost investor confidence. Highlighting rapid sectoral growth, he noted that over 1,000 mineral and coal blocks have been auctioned nationwide, generating revenue and creating industrial opportunities.
Reddy said PM Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah envision transforming J&K into a “mineral-rich state” with expanded employment avenues. Calling the auction a “transformative milestone”, he said it will stimulate industrial growth, resource utilisation, and socio-economic development for local communities.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the initiative will diversify J&K’s industrial base, strengthen investor trust, and generate new livelihood opportunities. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary also praised the collaboration between the Centre and the UT Government in driving transparent mining reforms.
During the roadshow, MECL presented geological assessments of the limestone blocks, SBI Capital Markets outlined the transactional model, and MSTC demonstrated the e-auction platform to assist prospective bidders.
Significant Step Toward Mining Reforms
Officials said seven limestone blocks across Anantnag, Rajouri, and Poonch—classified under G3 and G4 stages of the UNFC—covering around 314 hectares, are expected to draw strong interest, especially from the cement and construction sectors. The auction is being conducted under Sections 11(4) and 11(5) of the MMDR Act, 2015, placing J&K among the States and UTs adopting a transparent, fully digital mineral allocation system.
The initiative aligns with the Centre’s broader development push for J&K under the Prime Minister’s Industrial Development Scheme, aimed at positioning the UT as an emerging investment hub with improved connectivity, infrastructure, and job creation potential. The auction is expected to boost local industries and contribute to the economic vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Tender document sales begin on November 28, 2025, followed by a pre-bid conference on December 12. The last date for purchase is January 19, 2026, and bid submission will close on January 20, 2026, through the MSTC online portal.
