SRINAGAR: With Rs 150.49 crore revenue generated and 6,219 seizures made during 2024–25, Jammu and Kashmir’s mining sector remains under close watch as Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday directed officials to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal mining.
Chairing a high-level review meeting of the Geology and Mining Department at the Civil Secretariat Srinagar, the Deputy CM stressed strict enforcement on the ground, warning that any negligence or laxity by officials would attract disciplinary action under law.
He instructed District Mineral Officers to take full control of mining resources and maintain round-the-clock vigilance. Citing risks to bridges, roads, and water supply systems, he ordered that mining licences be cancelled and penalties imposed in cases of damage to infrastructure.
The Deputy CM also asked the department to expedite mineral block auctions in line with existing rules and to enforce all provisions of Central and UT mining laws. He called for robust monitoring mechanisms, including multi-departmental task forces, flying squads, informant networks, checkpoints, and an e-challan system to curb illegal activity.
Officials informed the meeting that Rs 16.79 crore was collected through the compounding of vehicles and machinery involved in unauthorised mining. Gypsum mining alone has earned Rs 4.38 crore in revenue during 2025–26. So far, 36 major leases for limestone and 233 minor mineral leases have been issued.
A presentation was made on the status of key minerals, including limestone, granite, gypsum, blue sapphire, lithium, and coal. The Deputy CM also stressed promoting mineral-based industries to enhance employment and revenue.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Mining Anil Kumar Singh, Director Geology and Mining Suraj Prakash Rukwal, MD JKLM Pawan Kumar, Special Secretary Dr. Suraya Fatima Tak, DMOs and other senior officials.
