J&K’s first mineral block auction: two limestone blocks in Anantnag
Why in the news
On 2 October 2026, the Ministry of Mines launched the first-ever mineral block auction in Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a historic step for the Union Territory’s mining sector.
Key facts
- Two limestone blocks are being auctioned, both in Anantnag district.
- Koot-Kaparan block: covers Koot and Kaparan villages in Duru tehsil; 22.43 hectares with nearly 4.75 million tonnes of limestone; explored to G-4 level.
- Wantrag block: 5.36 hectares with about 10.853 million tonnes of limestone; explored to G-3 level, with 159 metres of drilling done.
- It is the first auction of mineral blocks in J&K under the Centre’s auction process, held in coordination with the UT administration.
| Block | Area | Estimated limestone | Exploration stage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Koot-Kaparan | 22.43 ha | 4.75 million tonnes | G-4 |
| Wantrag | 5.36 ha | 10.853 million tonnes | G-3 |
About the auction
The Ministry said the move aims at transparent, sustainable and responsible development of the region’s mineral resources. Koot-Kaparan has seen only initial G-4 level exploration, while Wantrag has reached the more advanced G-3 level backed by drilling.
Exam angle
- First mineral block auction in J&K: limestone, Anantnag district.
- Wantrag is smaller in area but holds more estimated limestone than Koot-Kaparan.
- Exploration stages: Koot-Kaparan at G-4, Wantrag at G-3.