Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a high-level meeting to review the performance and reform strategies of the Department of Geology and Mining, emphasizing the use of technology to curb illegal mining and improve sectoral efficiency across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Mining Anil Kumar Singh, Director Geology and Mining, MD JK Minerals, and other senior officials.
Chief Secretary Dulloo directed the adoption of advanced tools like GPS tracking, RFID tagging, geo-fencing, and real-time monitoring systems to combat illegal mining operations. He stressed the need for strict enforcement mechanisms and deterrents against habitual violators.
He also called for the fast-tracking of Letters of Intent (LoIs) for non-operational mineral blocks and coordination with the Union Ministry of Mines to expedite assessment and auction of newly identified blocks. Dulloo advised benchmarking against successful models from other states to boost revenue.
On sector revival, he directed the swift framing of District Mineral Foundation Trust (DMFT) rules aligned with national reforms. Expressing concern over overcharging for minor minerals, he emphasized fair pricing and accessible construction materials for the public.
Principal Secretary Mining informed that out of 233 mineral blocks auctioned or reserved, only 106 are operational, while 127 remain inactive. The department aims to activate 60 non-operational blocks by October 31, 2025.
A revenue target of ₹500 crore has been set for FY 2025–26, a major leap from ₹150 crore in the previous year. Of this, ₹260 crore is expected from major minerals, ₹220 crore from minor minerals, and ₹100 crore from other sources.
Regarding major minerals, 48 limestone blocks have been identified, including 23 non-operational leases. Five key limestone blocks with reserves of 75.6 million tonnes are proposed for e-auction by October 2025, potentially generating ₹260 crore in revenue.
On minor minerals, 19 blocks are set for e-auction within three months, and eight LoIs will be issued within one month. Additionally, 73 blocks are awaiting NOCs from DCs and are expected to yield ₹100 crore.
On lithium reserves in Reasi, it was noted that GSI investigations confirm 5.9 million tonnes of resources spread over 3 sq km, with detailed studies expected by December 2025. Other minerals under exploration include sapphire, lignite, granite, quartzite, dolomite, and graphite across various districts.
The department has already launched the first phase of an integrated Mining Surveillance System (MSS) using satellite imagery. The second phase will include GPS-based vehicle tracking, integration with the Vahan Portal, real-time e-challan generation, and on-the-spot fines via PoS machines—already functional in Jammu and Samba and to be rolled out UT-wide by July 15.
Additionally, 22 mineral check-posts are being constructed, a multi-departmental District Task Force is being constituted, and a web portal for online mineral trade is in the works.
On the status of JK Minerals Ltd (JKML), the Chief Secretary was informed about current operations at the Gypsum Mine in Ramban and Coal Mines in Kalakot. Plans are underway to revive additional blocks, with concerns raised over pending financial liabilities needing resolution to improve JKML’s financial health.