J&K Launches First-Ever Limestone Block Auction Under MMDR Act Reforms

Srinagar, Nov 25 (KNN) The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir has launched its first auction of limestone mineral blocks, marking its entry into the national digital auction framework introduced under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act), 2015.

The auction process was jointly inaugurated in Jammu by Union Coal & Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary during a dedicated launch programme and industry roadshow.

Seven limestone blocks located in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch districts have been opened for bidding. Classified under the G3 and G4 stages of the United Nations Framework Classification (UNFC), these blocks span roughly 314 hectares and are expected to attract significant interest from cement and construction industries.

Officials said the auction, conducted under subsections (4) and (5) of Section 11 of the MMDR Act, marks the Union Territory’s entry into the national competitive bidding ecosystem for mineral allocation.

The initiative supports the Centre’s drive to accelerate industrial growth in Jammu & Kashmir. Improved connectivity and infrastructure are positioning the UT as a growing investment destination. 

The mining auctions are expected to boost local industries, generate jobs and aid economic expansion.

Speaking at the launch, Union Minister Reddy described the auction as a ‘transformative milestone’ and emphasised the government’s focus on ensuring that mineral development contributes to jobs and long-term socio-economic gains for local communities.

Chief Minister Abdullah said the move would strengthen investor confidence and diversify J&K’s industrial base, while the Deputy Chief Minister highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Centre and the UT administration in advancing mining reforms.

During the roadshow, Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Ltd (MECL) presented technical assessments of the blocks, while SBI Capital Markets outlined the transaction structure and Metal Scrap Trade Corporation Limited (MSTC) demonstrated the e-auction platform to facilitate bidder participation.

The sale of tender documents will begin on November 28, 2025. The pre-bid conference is scheduled for December 12, 2025. The last date to purchase tender documents is January 19, 2026, and bids must be submitted by January 20, 2026 via MSTC’s online auction system.

The initiative reflects the Centre’s ongoing efforts to promote transparent regulation, sustainable resource utilisation, and a self-reliant mineral sector, contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

(KNN Bureau)