The mining sector in Rajasthan is grappling with a significant challenge as more than 6,110 mines remain non-operational across the state, according to a departmental review conducted by the mines department. Jaipur reported 1,011 closed mines, while Ajmer recorded the highest number at 1,049, followed by Jodhpur with 1,018. Rajsamand reported 709 shut mines, Bhilwara 882, Bikaner 424, Bharatpur 401, Udaipur 318, and Kota 298 inactive mining leases.
Revival Strategy Initiated
In response to the worsening situation, the mines department has initiated efforts to prepare a revival strategy for closed mining leases. A recent meeting of senior officials discussed measures to restart inactive mines and remove administrative hurdles. The department has now sought detailed reports from all districts to identify the reasons behind closures and explore solutions for resuming operations at the earliest.
Reasons for Closures
Officials attribute the shutdowns to a combination of administrative delays, legal hurdles, and weak market demand. Around 1,879 mining leases are non-operational due to pending Consent to Operate (CTO) approvals and other regulatory clearances. Another 1,319 mines remain shut despite having approvals, largely due to poor market demand and declining commercial viability. In nearly 554 cases, mining operations are stalled because of pending environmental clearances.
Aravalli Region Worst Affected
The Aravalli region has emerged as the worst-affected zone, with nearly 3,890 mining leases lying inactive. Officials cited environmental restrictions and regulatory conditions in the ecologically sensitive region as the primary reasons behind the large number of closures. The department is reviewing the reasons behind the closure of mines across districts and is making efforts to identify viable leases that can be revived to increase mining activity and generate employment.
Potential Impact
Stakeholders warn that prolonged delays in restarting operations could impact employment, exports, and infrastructure-related activities across Rajasthan. The mines department is working to expedite clearances and address legal issues to revive the sector.
