Associated News Bureau

Deputy CM Unveils Turnaround Plan to Transform JK Minerals into Profitable PSU, Fast-Tracks Key Mining Projects

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 4: In a significant move aimed at unlocking Jammu and Kashmir's mineral potential for economic growth and employment generation, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday chaired the 176th meeting of the Board of Directors (BoDs) of Jammu & Kashmir Minerals Limited (JKML) at the Civil Secretariat here and outlined a comprehensive roadmap to transform the corporation into a financially self-sustaining and profit-making public sector undertaking. Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister underscored the strategic role of JKML in driving industrial development across the Union Territory, stating that the region's mineral wealth must be scientifically harnessed for the benefit of its people. He emphasized that efficient utilization of natural resources would create new avenues for employment, strengthen the economy and enhance revenue generation. Calling for time-bound implementation of all ongoing and proposed projects, Surinder Choudhary directed the JKML management to ensure optimum exploitation of mineral resources through transparent and sustainable practices. He also stressed the need for rationalisation of manpower at the Kalakote coal mines as part of efforts to improve the corporation's operational efficiency and profitability. The Deputy Chief Minister instructed officials to expedite the operationalisation of the Khrew Limestone Mine, additional gypsum blocks in Ramban district and the fuel pump project at Khrew in Pulwama. He said these initiatives would significantly enhance JKML's production capacity while supporting industrial expansion and infrastructure development across Jammu and Kashmir. Reaffirming the government's commitment to youth empowerment, Surinder Choudhary directed the corporation to fast-track new mining projects to maximise employment opportunities for local youth. During the meeting, the Board carried out a detailed review of ongoing projects and deliberated on measures to increase mineral production, diversify business operations and institutionalise sustainable and scientific mining practices across all operational areas. The Board also approved several financial and administrative proposals aimed at strengthening governance, improving operational efficiency and enhancing the overall performance of JKML. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Mining Department, Ashwani Kumar; Director, Geology and Mining; Managing Director, Jammu & Kashmir Minerals Limited; and other senior officers of the Mining Department and JKML. ANB