In a significant push to enhance the state's mining sector, Rajasthan's newly appointed Chief Secretary, V. Srinivas, has issued directives to ramp up mineral production and adopt more aggressive marketing strategies. The instructions came during a high-level review meeting of the Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited (RSMML) held in Jaipur.
Focus on Key Minerals and Reducing Imports
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the strategic importance of rock phosphate, a critical raw material for agricultural fertilizers. He highlighted that Rajasthan holds a near monopoly in India for this mineral, with approximately 30% of the country's total reserves located within the state. Officials were directed to make planned efforts to reduce India's dependence on imports and ensure higher supplies to DAP and SSP fertilizer manufacturing units.
The review noted that up to November in the current financial year, RSMML supplied 4.315 million tonnes of various minerals, including rock phosphate, lignite, gypsum, and limestone. Increasing the production of both rock phosphate and gypsum was underscored as a key contribution RSMML can make to bolster the agriculture sector, as enhanced gypsum availability helps improve soil fertility.
Statewide Mining Operations and Expansion Plans
A mining official present at the meeting detailed the company's operations. RSMML is engaged in mining activities across Rajasthan: rock phosphate mines in Udaipur district, lignite mines in Barmer and Nagaur, SMS-grade limestone mines in Jaisalmer, and white cement and chemical-grade limestone mines in Nagaur. Gypsum mining is actively carried out at multiple locations in Bikaner district, with reserves also located in Barmer and Nagaur.
The need to scale up production of limestone and lignite was also emphasized during the discussions. Furthermore, the use of modern mining technology was stressed to minimise mineral loss and promote sustainable and efficient mining practices.
Financial Performance and Future Directives
The meeting reviewed the company's strong financial performance. RSMML reported a turnover exceeding Rs 1,192 crore and a pre-tax profit of over Rs 337 crore for the period up to November. A significant portion of the revenue, Rs 797 crore, came from rock phosphate sales, followed by Rs 177.91 crore from limestone, Rs 140.85 crore from lignite, and Rs 3.62 crore from gypsum.
Chief Secretary Srinivas instructed officials to strictly follow safety standards, improve productivity and profitability, and conduct statutory audits promptly. The company was also advised to strengthen its marketing system alongside its mining operations to boost annual turnover further. As part of its diversification, it was noted that RSMML already operates a 106.3 MW wind power plant in Jaisalmer.
The directives aim to position RSMML as a more robust and profitable enterprise that directly supports national goals of self-reliance in critical minerals and aids the vital agriculture sector of the country.
