Bihar to auction over 30 mineral blocks by Sep 30: CM Samrat Choudhary

Patna, Aug 17 (IANS) Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Monday inaugurated the auction of important and strategic mineral blocks and a workshop organised by the Ministry of Coal and Mines, Government of India, in connection with the National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust (NMEDT).

Addressing the programme, Choudhary said Bihar has studied its mineral blocks and stressed that resources must be used for public welfare while protecting the state’s historical and cultural heritage.

The Chief Minister said the government is working to fulfil Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India and the goal of a prosperous Bihar. He said surveys have progressed in 28 of Bihar’s 44 mining blocks and that the state intends to complete the process for more than 30 blocks by September 30. Mining activities are targeted to begin from October 15.

Several mineral blocks have already been put up for tender, while the process for additional blocks is underway. Officials have been instructed to complete the remaining work within nine months.

Highlighting the state’s mineral wealth, Choudhary pointed to limestone in Rohtas, mineral resources in Aurangabad, deposits in Jehanabad and Jamui, and additional potential in Gaya, Banka and Bhagalpur. He said these resources would be systematically utilised in the interest of Bihar’s people and revenue generated through royalties would be used for public welfare and development.

Choudhary said Bihar’s budget has now reached Rs 3.47 lakh crore and development projects are being implemented rapidly. He linked mineral development with the government’s broader investment strategy, saying efforts are underway to establish mineral‑related centres and achieve the state’s target of attracting Rs 5 lakh crore in investment by November.

He said he had held discussions with Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy and praised Union Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey for his efforts related to Bihar. Appealing to investors, Choudhary said the state government is offering concessions and incentives to facilitate industrial investment.

“We urge everyone to invest in Bihar with an open mind. Help in taking Bihar forward. You are completely safe here and proceed with your work fearlessly. Bihar government will support you in every way,” Choudhary said.

Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey welcomed the Chief Minister at the programme by presenting him with a green plant, a corsage and insignia. Dubey and Kadam Sandeep V., Joint Secretary, Ministry of Coal and Mines, also addressed the event.

–IANS

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