Zero-tolerance directive issued; over ₹16.79 crore revenue realised from compounding of vehicles and machinery
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD)Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday reaffirmed the Jammu and Kashmir Government’s unwavering resolve to eliminate illegal mining across the Union Territory. Chairing a high-level review meeting of the Geology and Mining Department at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, the Deputy CM called for a zero-tolerance approach towards all forms of illegal mineral extraction.
In his address, Choudhary underscored the critical importance of safeguarding the region’s mineral wealth and public infrastructure. “Stringent action must be taken against violators. District Mineral Officers must assert full control over mining operations while ensuring round-the-clock monitoring. Any lapse in duty will invite strict disciplinary action,” he cautioned.
The Deputy CM directed officials to ensure that no mining activity jeopardises key public infrastructure. “If any damage is reported to roads, bridges or water supply schemes, the concerned mining block’s licence must be cancelled immediately, and penalties imposed on the responsible parties,” he said.
Choudhary further instructed the department to accelerate the auction of mineral resources in line with existing rules and regulations. He emphasised the need for stringent enforcement of both Central and UT mining laws.
During the meeting, officials presented an update on the exploration and extraction status of key minerals such as limestone, granite, blue sapphire, gypsum, lithium and coal. It was revealed that 36 major mining leases for limestone and 233 minor mineral leases have been issued to date.
To bolster enforcement, the Deputy CM called for a multi-layered monitoring framework, including multi-departmental district-level task forces, flying squads, informant networks, strategic checkpoints, and the implementation of e-challan systems.
Highlighting the economic potential of the mining sector, Choudhary urged the promotion of mineral-based industries to create employment opportunities and boost local revenue.
He was informed that the department had generated ₹16.79 crore through compounding of vehicles and machinery involved in illegal mining and transportation during the financial year 2024–25, with 6,219 seizures recorded. Additionally, overall revenue collection during the same period stood at ₹150.49 crore, while gypsum mining alone contributed ₹4.38 crore (₹438 lakh) in the 2025–26 fiscal year.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Mining, Anil Kumar Singh; Director Geology and Mining, Suraj Prakash Rukwal; MD JKLM, Pawan Kumar; Special Secretary Mining, Dr Suraya Fatima Tak; as well as District Mineral Officers and other senior officials.(DD)
