JAIPUR (India CSR): Rajasthan showcased its commitment to sustainable mining and economic growth during the ‘Sustainable Mining Safeguard Future’ session at the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit. Union Minister of Mines and Coal, G. Kishan Reddy, emphasized the critical role of the mining sector in achieving India’s $5 trillion economy goal, highlighting policy reforms and sustainable practices to attract private sector participation.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma lauded Rajasthan’s potential in the mining and petroleum sectors, calling the state a treasure trove of natural resources and a major contributor to the nation’s industrial and economic landscape.
1. Sustainable Mining: Transforming India’s Economy
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy underlined the importance of sustainable and transparent practices in the mining sector. He noted that policy reforms have enabled greater private participation, accelerating the exploration of critical minerals and reducing reliance on imports.
He remarked, “Mining is not just an economic activity; it is a pillar of our journey toward an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Rajasthan, with its rich reserves, plays a pivotal role in this vision.”
Rajasthan leads the nation in mineral wealth, with abundant reserves of potash, gypsum, copper, and silver. Reddy commended the state government’s policies, which have fostered significant growth and investment in the sector.
2. Rajasthan’s Rich Mining Potential
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma highlighted the state’s unparalleled mineral wealth. Rajasthan boasts 82 types of minerals, with 58 being commercially mined, including gold, iron ore, crude oil, and natural stones.
He stated, “Rajasthan is blessed with a soil that holds treasures. From natural stones used worldwide to crude oil reserves contributing 15% of the nation’s production, the state is a leader in mining and petroleum.”
3. Creating Employment and Opportunities
The mining sector in Rajasthan currently provides direct and indirect employment to 35 lakh people. The Chief Minister revealed the ambitious goal of creating 1 crore jobs in the sector by 2047. Investment agreements worth Rs 1.72 lakh crore signed with various investors signal the immense potential for economic and employment growth.
He also shared that Rajasthan’s petroleum industry has emerged as a national hub, producing 15% of India’s crude oil and 3.3 million cubic meters of natural gas daily.
4. Key Facts: Sustainable Mining in Rajasthan
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Session Theme | Sustainable Mining Safeguard Future |
| Economic Role | Mining sector critical for achieving India’s $5 trillion economy |
| Mineral Wealth | 82 types of minerals; 58 commercially mined |
| Top Resources | Potash, gypsum, copper, silver, marble, granite, crude oil |
| Employment Impact | 35 lakh current jobs; target of 1 crore jobs by 2047 |
| Investment Commitment | Rs 1.72 lakh crore in MoUs signed |
| Petroleum Production | 15% of India’s crude oil; 3.3 million cubic meters of natural gas daily |
| Iconic Use of Stones | Rajasthan marble and granite used in New Parliament and Ram Temple |
| Key Policy Initiatives | Rajasthan Mineral Policy 2024, M-Sand Policy |
| GDP Contribution Goal | Mining share to increase from 3.4% to 5% by 2029-30 |
| Environmental Focus | Sustainable and transparent mining practices |
| Major Developments | Auctioned 48 major mineral mining blocks in 11 months |
| Global Recognition | Partnerships with leading industry players like Hindustan Zinc and others |
5. Rajasthan’s Stones in Iconic Structures
Rajasthan’s marble, granite, and other construction materials are in high demand globally. The Chief Minister proudly noted that stones from Rajasthan are part of iconic structures like the New Parliament Building and the Ram Temple.
“It is a matter of pride that our stones have been chosen for the nation’s historic landmarks. This reflects the quality and craftsmanship of Rajasthan,” he said.
6. Innovative Policies for Sustainable Growth
To ensure transparency and growth, the state government launched the Rajasthan Mineral Policy 2024. The policy aims to increase the mining sector’s contribution to the state’s GDP from 3.4% to 5% by 2029-30.
The Chief Minister also announced a new M-Sand Policy to promote eco-friendly construction materials. The policy provides relaxed eligibility criteria for setting up M-Sand units, encouraging investment and boosting infrastructure development.
He explained, “This policy is not only environmentally friendly but also a step toward providing high-quality building materials at affordable costs.”
7. Investors as Partners in Progress
Calling on investors to join the state’s journey of growth, the Chief Minister said, “Investment in Rajasthan’s mining sector is not just an economic opportunity; it is a chance to contribute to the state’s industrial and social progress.”
He highlighted the successful auction of 48 major mineral mining blocks in the past 11 months as a testament to the state’s commitment to fostering investment and growth.
8. Focus on Balanced Development
Minister for Tribal Regional Development, Babulal Kharadi, stressed the government’s commitment to balancing development with environmental sustainability. He said, “We are working to ensure that growth does not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Rajasthan is setting an example in sustainable mining.”
9. Road Ahead: Global Investment in Mining
The session also included presentations by leading industry experts. T. Ravikant, Principal Secretary for Mines and Petroleum, shared a detailed overview of Rajasthan’s achievements and policies in the sector.
CEOs and investors, including Hindustan Zinc’s Arun Mishra, applauded the state’s initiatives and reiterated their commitment to contributing to Rajasthan’s mining and petroleum growth.
Rajasthan has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable mining and petroleum development. With innovative policies, abundant resources, and a vision for balanced growth, the state is set to become a global hub for mining and investment. The Chief Minister’s call to investors encapsulates the state’s mission: “Let us work together to make Rajasthan a beacon of mining excellence for the world.”
(India CSR)
