Jammu, Nov 24: The Chief Minister today clarified that Jammu and Kashmir is not handing over its mines or mineral resources to the Central Government, dismissing recent speculation circulating in certain quarters. The CM said that the Union Territory will continue to retain full administrative and regulatory control over its mineral blocks.
Addressing reporters after a review meeting on mining and mineral development, the Chief Minister stated that the existing policies clearly outline the jurisdiction of the J&K administration in all matters related to mineral exploration, allocation and operational oversight. He said that claims suggesting otherwise were “misleading and factually incorrect.”
The CM emphasised that the government is focused on ensuring transparent auctions, scientific mining practices and sustainable utilisation of mineral resources within the Union Territory. He added that ongoing initiatives aim to strengthen local revenue generation, create employment opportunities and expand industrial development.
He further noted that cooperation with central agencies is limited to technical support, exploration expertise and regulatory guidance, and does not involve any transfer of ownership or control of J&K’s mineral assets. The administration, he said, remains fully committed to protecting the region’s mineral wealth and ensuring it benefits the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
