J&K to launch first-ever auction of limestone blocks
The Ministry of Mines announced on 23 November 2025 that the first-ever auction of limestone mineral blocks in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir would be launched in Jammu on 24 November by Union Coal & Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy.
Summary
Seven limestone blocks covering about 314 hectares have been identified in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch districts, at UNFC G3 and G4 exploration stages. It will be the first mining block auction in the UT since the 2015 MMDR Act reforms. The auction will be conducted under sub-sections (4) and (5) of Section 11 of the MMDR Act, which let the Centre facilitate auctions where State or UT administrations face procedural limitations.
Key facts
- Event
- First limestone block auction in J&K (launch: Jammu, 24 Nov 2025)
- Blocks
- 7 blocks, ~314 ha
- Districts
- Anantnag, Rajouri, Poonch
- Exploration stage
- UNFC G3 and G4
- Legal basis
- Section 11(4) and 11(5), MMDR Act
Practice MCQs 2 questions
Which of the following districts is NOT among those where limestone blocks were identified for J&K's first limestone auction (November 2025)?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Baramulla
The seven blocks (about 314 ha) are in Anantnag, Rajouri and Poonch districts.
J&K's first limestone block auction is being conducted by the Centre under which provision?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Section 11(4) and 11(5) of the MMDR Act
Sub-sections (4) and (5) of Section 11 of the MMDR Act enable the Central Government to facilitate auctions where States/UTs face procedural limitations.