Rajasthan Government had announced the auction of three limestone blocks and one copper block on 11th November. The mineral blocks being auctioned have evoked significant industry interest with participation from players from across the country. Pre- bid conference for these auctions took place in Jaipur on 6th December.

Rajasthan is a hub for production of limestone and metals like copper and zinc with footprint of all major cement and metal mining companies in the state. In addition to these existing players looking for expansion, many new players and conglomerates looking for diversification have bought the tender documents. Executives from cement companies bidding for these blocks appreciated the responses given during the pre-bid conference and highlighted that State Mines Dept. and DMG, Rajasthan have taken several measures to attract investors, inspiring confidence in the mining community leading to an increased industry interest.

Government of India has also been working tirelessly to introduce much-needed reforms in the sector such as the Post-Auction Mining Clearances and Approvals Facilitator (PAMCAF) to reduce delays required for statutory clearances and approvals for auctioned blocks. Mrs. Aparna Arora, IAS, Secretary for Mines & Petroleum, Govt. of Rajasthan, said that the government is committed to making Rajasthan the top mining destination in the country and will provide investors all the necessary support.

Contributed by: Hritu Sodhi