Why in news?
For the first time since becoming a Union Territory, Jammu & Kashmir announced that it will auction seven limestone blocks covering about 314 hectares in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch districts. The auction, scheduled for late November 2025, follows reforms under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and aims to promote transparent, competitive and sustainable mineral development.
Background
Limestone is a common sedimentary rock made mostly of calcium carbonate. Much of it forms when shells, coral fragments and other marine organisms accumulate on the seafloor and are compacted over millions of years. Pure limestone can also precipitate directly from water. When subjected to heat and pressure, limestone recrystallises to become marble.
Details of the auction
- Seven blocks: The government has identified limestone deposits across three districts—Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch—covering a combined area of about 314 hectares.
- Transparent process: The auction will be conducted through an online platform, ensuring that bids are competitive and the allocation process is open to public scrutiny.
- Economic benefits: Officials expect the initiative to attract investment, create local jobs, generate revenue for the Union Territory and support industries that rely on limestone.
Uses of limestone
- Construction and cement: High‑quality limestone is cut for building stones, while lower‑grade limestone is ground to produce cement—the main ingredient in concrete.
- Roads and industry: Crushed limestone forms road bases and is used as a filler in paper, plastics and paints. Limestone and its derivative lime remove impurities in steelmaking and help extract gold by neutralising acidic solutions.
- Agriculture and glass: Finely ground limestone is applied to acidic soils to raise pH and release nutrients. Calcium oxide derived from limestone is an essential raw material in glass manufacture.
Conclusion
The auction of limestone blocks signals Jammu & Kashmir’s commitment to harnessing its mineral resources responsibly. By adopting transparent bidding and enforcing environmental safeguards, the Union Territory aims to stimulate economic growth while preserving its fragile ecosystems.
Sources: Press Information Bureau,
