Rajasthan Secures First Prize in Major Mineral Block Auctions
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Synopsis
The Mines Department of Rajasthan has been awarded the first prize for its outstanding performance in mineral block auctions. Led by T. Ravikant, the department auctioned 31 major mineral blocks in the 2023-24 fiscal year, achieving unprecedented success and acclaim at the National Mining Ministers Conference.
Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan’s first prize in mineral auctions.
- 31 major mineral blocks auctioned in 2023-24.
- Recognized for exemplary performance by the Central government.
- Significant contributions from the Mines and Geology Department.
- Optimism for new records in future auctions.
Jaipur, Jan 20 (NationPress) The Mines Department of Rajasthan clinched the top award for its performance in the auctioning of major mineral blocks on Monday.
T. Ravikant, the Principal Secretary of Mines, Geology, and Petroleum in Rajasthan, received the prestigious award for Exemplary Performance in Mineral Block Auctions from Union Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi, and Union Mines Secretary V. Kantarao at the National Mining Ministers Conference held in Konark, Odisha.
Ravikant acknowledged that Rajasthan has reached remarkable milestones in the mineral sector, guided by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. These milestones include significant policy reforms, advancements in exploration, mining, and revenue collection, all acknowledged by the Central government as exemplary.
In the fiscal year 2023-24, Rajasthan successfully auctioned an impressive total of 31 major mineral blocks, marking a pioneering achievement in the state’s mining history. This success resulted from strategic initiatives to complete auctions in less than three months after the new government assumed office.
Ravikant credited this accomplishment to the collaborative efforts and team spirit of the Mines and Geology Department, congratulating officials, personnel, stakeholders, and the people of Rajasthan for their vital contributions.
Among the 31 mineral blocks auctioned, 22 were for limestone, 4 for iron ore, and 5 for base metals, which included 22 mining leases and 9 composite licenses.
Ravikant expressed optimism that Rajasthan would establish a new record in mineral block auctions in the ongoing financial year.
Director of Mines Bhagwati Prasad Kalal emphasized the importance of mineral exploration, the delineation of mining plots, auctions via the Central government’s e-portal, and robust actions against illegal mining in enhancing the department’s progress and national prestige. He applauded the swift pace of auctions that enabled Rajasthan to achieve the top position in 2023-24.
