Chandigarh, November 7
Punjab Mines and Geology Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal presented the state’s crucial mining issues and policy demands during the high-level Conference of Mining Ministers on Reforms in Mines and Coal Sector held in Goa on November 5 and 6. The national conference, chaired by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, witnessed Punjab highlighting its remarkable advancements in mining governance while seeking equitable central support for states primarily dependent on minor minerals.
The Union Minister assured complete cooperation in resolving Punjab’s concerns and agreed to examine the state’s representation regarding the SASCI framework. During this, Goyal said, “Punjab has secured the first position among Category-C States under the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) in FY 2025-26, earning a financial incentive of ₹200 crore for its exemplary mining reforms. However, the revised criteria under SASCI 2026-27 predominantly prioritise major mineral mine auctions and their operationalisation.”
The Mines and Geology Minister stated, “Punjab is primarily a minor mineral state, with sand, gravel and earth forming the backbone of its mining sector to meet civil construction requirements. Since the state currently has no operational major mineral sites, geological limitations should not deprive a willing and reform-oriented state of financial assistance.” He pointed out, “Punjab has consistently demonstrated its commitment to mining reforms and transparent governance. I have urged the Union Ministry of Mines to restore equal weightage for minor mineral reforms under SASCI 2026-27 or establish alternative eligibility criteria so that states like Punjab receive equitable reform-linked financial support.”
Goyal said, “Punjab has significant potential to contribute towards national mineral security. We have presented a comprehensive roadmap for potash exploration currently underway in Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib, alongside hydrocarbon exploration facilitated under Mission Anveshan.” The Punjab Mines Minister stated, “I have requested early sanctions from the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) for potash exploration blocks, including those planned for 2027-28 at Patrewala, Khippanwali, Khuranj and Badian. We have also sought the upgradation of geological exploration from G-3 to G-1 in Rajpura, Gidranwali and Shergarh so that these resources become bankable and attractive for prospective investors.”
“Punjab’s 46 sq km Shergarh block has failed to attract bidders in recent auctions. I have urged the Union Ministry to encourage companies exploring the contiguous Nagaur-Ganganagar basin of Rajasthan to also participate in bidding for this block, which can unlock significant exploration potential for the state,” he added.
Goyal said, “To ensure smooth execution of exploration activities, Punjab has already established a State Level Coordination Committee under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary and a Joint Working Group to resolve land clearance issues and ensure zero operational delays for survey teams.”
Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy appreciated Punjab’s progressive strides in the mining sector and assured complete cooperation in resolving all state-specific concerns. He also assured that the Ministry of Mines would actively examine Punjab’s representation regarding the SASCI framework and extend full support to expedite geological exploration and block auctions.
