Jammu, Mar 11: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a high-level meeting to review mining sector reforms and measures to curb illegal mining across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary (Mining), Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, and representatives of the Pollution Control Committee and Geology & Mining department.

The Chief Secretary reviewed progress under mining reforms, focusing on strengthened surveillance, prevention of illegal extraction, and enhanced revenue generation. He observed a live demonstration of the Integrated Mining Surveillance System (IMSS), a digital platform monitoring vehicle movement carrying minerals, and directed improvements to ensure stricter checks. Weekly automated alerts and a clear timeline for system upgrades were emphasized.
Officials reported that out of 235 identified minor mineral blocks, 81 are operational, 10 have received LoI extensions, and 8 are pending approvals. Seven blocks have been auctioned in Anantnag, while 22 more are in the pipeline. GPS tracking devices have been installed on 3,942 mining vehicles, with 3,515 integrated into IMSS.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed the status of environmental clearances, forest approvals, and EIA reports to expedite pending cases and facilitate timely auctioning of minor mineral blocks. Enforcement measures have generated ₹1.10 Cr in penalties, while the sector has produced ₹137.27 Cr in revenue in the first two months of 2026. Integration of IMSS with e-challan and e-market systems was discussed to enable swift action on violations.
Dulloo underscored the need for robust surveillance, effective enforcement, and operationalization of all minor mineral blocks to enhance revenue and curb illegal mining.