Khrew limestone, Ramban gypsum projects to be expedited; JKML to be turned into profit-making

Ziraat Times News Desk

Srinagar, Aug 4: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday unveiled a roadmap to transform Jammu & Kashmir Minerals Limited (JKML) into a profitable and financially self-reliant public sector undertaking, while directing the fast-track execution of key mining projects, including the Khrew limestone mine and additional gypsum blocks in Ramban district.

Chairing the 176th meeting of the Board of Directors of JKML at the Civil Secretariat here, the Deputy Chief Minister said the corporation has a crucial role in the industrial development of Jammu & Kashmir and should emerge as a vibrant public sector enterprise.

He said the mineral wealth of Jammu & Kashmir belongs to its people and its scientific and sustainable utilisation could generate employment opportunities and enhance government revenue.

Choudhary directed the JKML management to ensure time-bound implementation of all ongoing and proposed projects. He also stressed optimum utilisation of mineral resources, transparency in operations and rationalisation of manpower at the Kalakote coal mines as key measures to improve the corporation’s financial performance.

Reviewing the corporation’s expansion plans, the Deputy Chief Minister asked officials to take immediate steps to operationalise the limestone mine at Khrew, additional gypsum blocks in Ramban district and the fuel pump at Khrew in Pulwama.

According to the government, these projects are expected to increase JKML’s production capacity while supporting industrial and infrastructure development across the Union Territory.

Emphasising the government’s focus on employment generation, Choudhary directed the corporation to expedite new mining projects to maximise job opportunities for local youth.

During the meeting, the Board reviewed the progress of ongoing projects and discussed strategies to enhance mineral production, expand business operations and promote sustainable and scientific mining practices.

The Board also approved several financial and administrative proposals aimed at improving operational efficiency, strengthening governance and enhancing the overall performance of the corporation.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Mining Department, Ashwani Kumar, Director, Geology and Mining, the Managing Director of JK Minerals Limited, and other senior officials of the department and the corporation.