Centre to Auction 12 Limestone Blocks in J&K Today to Boost Industrial Growth

Srinagar: The Ministry of Mines will launch the second tranche of limestone block auctions in Jammu & Kashmir on May 12 in Srinagar, marking a major push to unlock the Union Territory’s mineral potential and accelerate industrial development.
Under Tranche II, a total of 12 limestone blocks located in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch will be offered for auction. The blocks include both newly identified reserves and those re-auctioned after earlier rounds, reflecting efforts to ensure optimal utilisation of resources and sustained investor interest.
The launch event in Srinagar will be attended by Piyush Goyal, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, along with Ashwani Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary, and other senior officials from the Centre and the Union Territory administration.
Officials said the blocks fall under UNFC G3 and G4 exploration stages, indicating significant geological potential with industrial-grade limestone deposits. These resources are critical for sectors such as cement, construction and infrastructure, and are expected to strengthen the region’s industrial base.
The auction process will be conducted under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015, through a transparent, competitive e-auction system aligned with global standards.
The government expects the move to generate revenue, create employment opportunities and drive inclusive economic growth, in line with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. PIB