31-major-mineral-blocks-auctioned-in-rajasthan-highest-in-the-country

Rajasthan's Mines and Geology Department has achieved a remarkable feat in mineral block auctions, marking a significant milestone under the current BJP government, state officials have confirmed.

According to Anandi, the state's Mines Secretary, Rajasthan has successfully auctioned off 31 major mineral blocks through the Government of India's e-portal as of March 13. Notably, within a mere 22 days, 15 limestone blocks were snapped up in auctions.

The Mines Ministry's progress report unveiled that by March 1 of this financial year, both Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan had auctioned off 22 major mineral blocks each. However, Rajasthan surged ahead with the successful auction of nine more blocks, bringing its total to 31, the highest in the country.

Comparatively, in the previous fiscal year, Rajasthan had only auctioned eight major mineral blocks, marking a substantial increase under the new provisions.

Anandi emphasized the Central government's focus on auctioning major mineral blocks and the concerted efforts of states to prepare and auction as many blocks as possible, all under close monitoring.

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, also the Mines Minister, directed an aggressive campaign against illegal mining upon taking office. He stressed the importance of preparing numerous blocks for auction to promote legal mining.

 In line with this directive, Rajasthan has initiated the auction process for gold, rare earth elements, and potash by issuing tenders on the Government of India's portal.

Bhagwati Prasad Kalal, Director of Mines, highlighted the auction of various mineral blocks in the state this fiscal year. Of the 31 blocks auctioned, 22 were for limestone mining leases, while composite licenses were granted for four iron ore blocks and two base metal blocks. Additionally, three blocks of base metal and associated minerals were auctioned for composite licenses.

Kalal attributed this success to concerted efforts to curb illegal mining and promote mineral exploration in Rajasthan. The transparent auctioning system via the Government of India's e-portal has facilitated the process, ensuring accountability and fairness.