April 16:
Sahil Aggarwal (Editor-in-Chief)
BJP Spokesperson Gaurav Gupta met with the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, to present a detailed memorandum urging systematic exploration and development of Rare Earth and Critical Minerals (RECMs) in Jammu province.
Gupta emphasized the rising global importance of RECMs in sectors such as defense, renewable energy, semiconductors, and electronics. Highlighting Jammu’s untapped mineral potential, he identified key districts like Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, and Udhampur as rich in minerals like monazite, xenotime, tungsten, and lithium. He also referenced the Geological Survey of India’s discovery of 5.9 million tonnes of lithium in Reasi, calling it a significant milestone for India’s clean energy goals.
Noting historical and modern mineral data, Gupta detailed the presence of galena in Udhampur, mica in Parmandal Sandstone, and tungsten in Kathua. He further emphasized the need to harness Kishtwar’s high-value sapphire reserves through scientific and sustainable methods.
He recommended the creation of a High-Level Task Force under the UT administration to coordinate with national agencies like GSI, MECL, CSIR, DRDO, ISRO, and IITs. Gupta also proposed a dedicated Jammu & Kashmir RECM policy to attract private investment, streamline approvals, and promote entrepreneurship.
To support research and innovation, he suggested setting up a Centre of Excellence for Critical Mineral Technology in Jammu. Gupta stressed that a responsible and inclusive mining approach could generate employment, stimulate economic growth, and elevate Jammu’s strategic value in national mineral planning.
The Lieutenant Governor appreciated Gupta’s well-researched proposals and assured thorough evaluation and follow-up with relevant departments to explore actionable steps.