Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir has auctioned two limestone blocks in Anantnag district for the first time under the Centre’s mineral auction process, marking a step towards organised development of the Union Territory’s mineral resources.
The auction was conducted by the Union Ministry of Mines after the Jammu and Kashmir administration entrusted the process to the Centre. The move is aimed at encouraging investment and facilitating further exploration and development of the region’s mineral reserves.
The two blocks — Koot-Kapran and Wantrag — are located in Anantnag district and have estimated combined limestone resources of more than 15.6 million tonnes.
Spread across 22.43 hectares in Koot and Kapran villages of Dooru tehsil, the Koot-Kapran Limestone Block has estimated resources of 4.75 million tonnes. The block has been explored up to the G-4 stage, indicating scope for more detailed geological assessment.
The Wantrag Limestone Block covers 5.36 hectares and has estimated resources of 10.853 million tonnes. It has been explored up to the G-3 stage, including 159 metres of drilling, providing a geological basis for further exploration.
The Ministry of Mines said the successful auction is expected to encourage fresh investment and economic activity in the Union Territory. Mining and related operations could create direct and indirect employment opportunities and support local businesses, service providers and allied industries.
The development is also expected to provide opportunities for greater local participation in the mining sector and increase value addition from the region’s mineral resources.
The ministry said it would continue coordinating with the Jammu and Kashmir administration to support transparent, sustainable and responsible mineral development.
