Move to lease out 30 mining blocks in Assam

 Government targets Rs 7,000-crore revenue in two years

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: For the first time, the State Government has decided to lease out 30 mining blocks in various districts in the state. The government intends to earn around Rs 7,000-crore revenue in the next few years from these blocks.

The Directorate of Geology and Mining has already started the tendering process (e-auction) for the purpose. Twenty-two mining blocks in Goalpara, Kamrup, Morigaon and Nagaon districts are of granites of different hues – multi-colour, black and grey. Two mine blocks in Nagaon have glass sand, and two others in Karbi Anglong have china clay.

Likewise, three mine blocks in Karbi Anglong and West Karbi Anglong have quartzite, and one block in Dima Hasao has stand stone.

Talking to The Sentinel, Mines and Mineral Minister Jogen Mohan said, "The State government never thought of leasing out mining blocks to earn revenue.

It is a major decision. We are at the preliminary stage. It will take time. If we are successful, we can earn around Rs 300-crore revenue annually. The tendering process for e-auction is underway. We are hopeful that some parties will evince interests."

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