CM Champai Soren Pushes for Swift Mineral Auction in Jharkhand

Jharkhand to Accelerate Mineral Block Operations, Aims for Revenue Boost

Chief Minister Champai Soren mandates rapid auction and operationalization of mineral blocks to enhance state revenue.

RANCHI – In a strategic move to bolster Jharkhand’s revenue through mining, Chief Minister Champai Soren has instructed officials to expedite the auction and activation of mineral blocks within the state.

During a review of the Mines and Geology Department’s activities, Soren emphasized mining as a critical revenue source, urging the prompt start of operations at already auctioned or allocated mining blocks.

The Chief Minister’s directive includes issuing show cause notices to companies lagging in mining efforts, with a stern warning of allotment cancellations for those uninterested in pursuing mining operations.

A deadline has been set to complete the auction or allocation of 10 identified mineral blocks by the end of February, indicating the government’s urgency in advancing these initiatives.

Soren highlighted the importance of overcoming forest clearance hurdles to initiate activities in the mineral blocks, instructing mining officials to coordinate with the Forest Department to resolve any issues.

The officials were also advised to engage with companies and institutions responsible for mining work, ensuring the swift commencement of operations and addressing any lack of interest through potential allotment cancellations.

With a target to finalize all auction-related actions for major and minor mineral blocks by March 2024, the Chief Minister’s orders reflect a comprehensive approach to maximize the state’s mining potential.

Soren also focused on the immediate commencement of mining in coal blocks where activities have yet to start, emphasizing the revenue loss due to operational delays.

Efforts to expedite forest clearance for coal blocks awaiting approval were underscored, alongside the directive to facilitate sand availability for consumers at reasonable prices, improving the sand ghat auction process.

Additionally, the Chief Minister called for contractual appointments for the Geologist position in the Mining Department, further instructing the requisition of regular appointments through the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC).

This series of directives by Chief Minister Champai Soren signifies a determined push to optimize Jharkhand’s mining sector, aiming to enhance state revenue and streamline mineral resource management.