Rajasthan Mining: Transparency & Reforms Focus

Jaipur, May 19 (PTI) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Tuesday said the state holds immense potential in the mining sector and emphasised transparency, policy reforms and infrastructure development as key priorities to boost growth.

Chairing a meeting of the mining and coal department at his residence in the presence of Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy, Sharma said Rajasthan is among the leading mineral-rich states in the country, with 82 types of minerals available, of which 57 are currently being exploited, an official statement said.

He directed officials to strengthen coordination with the Centre and hold regular meetings to ensure the timely completion of mining-related projects.

The Chief Minister referred to the Siwana Ring Complex spread across Barmer and Balotra districts, noting its significance due to the presence of rare earth and heavy rare earth elements, which are crucial for modern technology and clean energy sectors. He instructed the appointment of a nodal officer to expedite its implementation.

Sharma also urged the Centre to share details of sites identified and explored by the Geological Survey of India to ensure proper land management and conservation. He stressed the need to fast-track environmental clearances and commence production in auctioned mineral blocks at the earliest.

Union Minister Reddy said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the mining sector has witnessed major reforms, leading to faster exploration, auction and production, particularly in critical minerals.

He added that Rajasthan is emerging as a major hub for critical minerals and has the capacity to meet growing demand across sectors such as defence, energy, agriculture, solar and automobiles.

Officials said issues related to energy projects, joint ventures, solar initiatives, District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds, environmental approvals and mineral exploration activities were also discussed during the meeting.

Senior state and central government officials were present at the meeting.