Has Rajasthan Established a High-Level Project Monitoring Unit for Its Mining Sector?
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Synopsis
In a significant move for the mining sector, Rajasthan has launched a high-level Project Monitoring Unit. This initiative aims to streamline mineral operations, boost investments, and promote sustainable mining practices, setting the stage for the state's mining future. Discover how this PMU could transform Rajasthan's mineral landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Establishment of a high-level PMU for efficient mineral management.
- Focus on sustainable mining practices and global innovations.
- Increased employment opportunities through faster mine operations.
- Key areas of focus include eco-tourism and paperless operations.
- Commitment to aligning with global best practices.
Jaipur, Sep 11 (NationPress) The Mines and Geology Department has established a high-level Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) aimed at ensuring the effective implementation, coordination, and oversight of all mineral-related activities in Rajasthan.
Principal Secretary T. Ravikant stated that the PMU will concentrate on areas such as exploration, revenue generation, investment opportunities, employment creation, sustainable mining practices, innovations, and the integration of global technologies.
He highlighted that Rajasthan, endowed with substantial reserves of critical, strategic, major, and minor minerals, possesses significant potential. The establishment of the PMU is expected to invigorate the sector, facilitating quicker operationalization of auctioned mines, attracting investments, and generating job opportunities.
Ravikant pointed out that seven key focus areas have been outlined for the PMU, which include exploration, auction processes, expeditious mine operations, research and development, sustainable mining, eco-tourism, and transitioning to paperless operations.
Experienced officers have been designated as heads for each sector, supported by core teams to provide insights and track progress. The CEO of RSMET, Alok Jain, will spearhead the exploration and auction team, collaborating with GSI and other technical experts to enhance exploration efforts and expedite auction processes. Meanwhile, Pratap Meena, Superintending Engineer Vigilance in Jaipur, will supervise the approval processes to ensure prompt operations of auctioned mines.
Girish Kachhara, the Financial Advisor, is tasked with monitoring revenue generation and safeguarding the state’s financial interests. Sunil Kumar, Superintendent Geologist, will oversee the strategic planning and management of DMFT funds, while also analyzing effective practices from other states. To promote sustainable mining and the adoption of new technologies, N.S. Shaktiwat, Superintendent Mining Engineer in Jaipur, will focus on star-rating mines, encouraging eco-tourism in decommissioned mines, recycling waste, and implementing automation and paperless solutions.
Jai Gurubakhsani, Superintendent Mining Engineer in Ajmer, will lead the research and development initiatives, which include organizing conferences, seminars, training programs, and creating a collaborative platform for stakeholders, with Sanjay Saxena, Superintendent Geologist, serving as co-lead.
Principal Secretary T. Ravikant underscored that the state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, is dedicated to positioning Rajasthan as a frontrunner in the mining sector. This commitment is reflected in the implementation of reforms such as the new mineral policy, M-Sand policy, RIPS assistance provisions, and the Amnesty Scheme.
He mentioned that the PMU has already commenced its operations and is poised to play a pivotal role in modernizing Rajasthan’s mineral sector while aligning it with global best practices.
Point of View
The establishment of the Project Monitoring Unit in Rajasthan is a promising step towards modernizing the mining sector. It reflects the government's commitment to enhancing efficiency and sustainability, which is crucial for the state's economic growth. The focus on innovation and global best practices could set a precedent for other states to follow.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Project Monitoring Unit in Rajasthan?
The PMU aims to ensure effective planning, coordination, and monitoring of all mineral-related activities in Rajasthan, focusing on sustainable practices and innovation.
Who will lead the Project Monitoring Unit?
The PMU will be led by experienced officers, including the CEO of RSMET, Alok Jain, who will coordinate exploration and auction efforts.
What are the key areas of focus for the PMU?
The PMU will focus on exploration, auction processes, quick operationalization of mines, research and development, sustainable mining, eco-tourism, and paperless operations.
How will the PMU impact employment in Rajasthan?
By facilitating quicker operations of auctioned mines and attracting investments, the PMU is expected to generate significant employment opportunities in the mining sector.
What reforms has the government implemented in the mining sector?
The government has introduced reforms such as the new mineral policy, M-Sand policy, RIPS assistance provisions, and the Amnesty Scheme to modernize the sector.
