Transparency in mining ops top priority of Raj govt, says CM

Jaipur: Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said Tuesday that transparency in mining operations, policy reforms, and infrastructure development remain top priorities of the Rajasthan govt as the state seeks to position itself as a major hub for critical minerals and mining investment in the country.

Addressing a high-level review meeting of the mines and coal department at the chief minister’s residence, Sharma directed officials to ensure regular coordination meetings with the Centre so that mining-related projects and clearances are completed within stipulated timelines.

Union coal and mines minister G Kishan Reddy was also present at the meeting.

“Rajasthan is among the leading mineral-rich states in the country and has immense potential in the mining sector. The state has 82 types of minerals, out of which 57 are currently being exploited. Our govt is prioritising transparency, policy reforms and infrastructure development in the mining sector,” Sharma said.

The chief minister stressed the need to accelerate work related to the Sivana Ring Complex, spread across nearly 725 sq km in Barmer and Balotra districts. Officials informed that the circular and semi-circular igneous rock formation in the region contains rare earth elements and heavy rare earth elements, considered strategically important for clean energy and advanced technology sectors.

Sharma directed officials to appoint a nodal officer for effective implementation of projects related to the Sivana Ring Complex and asked mining department officials and district collectors concerned to hold regular meetings with central govt agencies to expedite work.

He also urged the Centre to share details of identified and explored mineral sites surveyed by the Geological Survey of India with the state govt to prevent such land from being allocated for other purposes before conservation and mining planning.

The chief minister instructed officials to expedite environmental clearances and ensure the early commencement of production activities in mineral blocks that have already been auctioned. He said regular review meetings and structured planning would help avoid delays and duplication in mining activities.

Union minister G Kishan Reddy said Rajasthan was rapidly emerging as a major centre for critical minerals due to the proactive approach of the state govt and the Centre’s policy reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.