DyCM calls for strict ban on illegal mining in J&K

DyCM Surinder Kumar Choudhary chairing a meeting on Thursday.
DyCM Surinder Kumar Choudhary chairing a meeting on Thursday.

*Asks for intensifying skill development

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Oct 24: Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Kumar Choudhary, emphasised the need for a complete ban on illegal mining in Jammu and Kashmir, stressing transparency and accountability in harnessing mineral resources to fuel economic growth and public asset development.
During a review meeting at the Civil Secretariat, Choudhary directed the officers to prioritise ecological concerns while allocating mineral blocks, ensuring preservation of flora and fauna and preventing contamination of water and other natural resources.
“The Government is committed to responsible mining practices, balancing economic development with environmental stewardship,” Choudhary stated.
Emphasizing on strict enforcement, Dy CM directed the officers to ensure a complete ban on illegal mining operations. He said that the environmental protection with emphasis on preserving flora and fauna of the region is priority and prime objective of the current dispensation.
He stressed on transparency and accountability for maintaining openness and responsibility in mineral resource management. He instructed for initiating efforts towards fostering economic growth while safeguarding natural resources.
He reiterated that the Government is dedicated to focus on environmentally conscious policies, aligning with existing regulations and guidelines.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s emphasis on responsible mining practices underscores Jammu and Kashmir’s determination to sustainable development and environmental protection.
Among others, Commissioner Secretary Industries, Director Mining, MD JK Minerals and other senior officers attended the meeting.
Meanwhile, DyCM stressed on intensifying skill development for Youth Employment in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Deputy Chief Minister said this while chairing a review meeting of Labour, employment and Skill Development Departments.
The Dy CM emphasised the importance of skill development and training for youth to create employment opportunities. He asserted that providing skill-oriented courses will empower youth to become job providers rather than job seekers.
Choudhary directed the officials to ensure proper implementation of various welfare schemes undertaken by the labour department, benefiting the targeted population. He also instructed for introduction of skill-oriented courses aligned with the latest industrial and market demands.
The Dy CM asked for proper handholding of youth through skill-oriented courses to enable them become entrepreneurs. He instructed for effective implementation of labour department schemes to benefit the targeted population. He also instructed for conducting regular inspections of industrial estates to gather feedback on production units.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Labour and Employment, Rajiv Ranjan, CEO Jammu and Kashmir Building and other Construction Welfare Board, Munir ul Islam, Labour Commissioner, Director Labour and Employment, Director Skill Development Department and other senior officers.