Unlock the earth, unleash growth: Reddy pushes NE to tap mining goldmine at Guwahati conclave

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 29, 2025

The 2nd North East Mining Ministers’ Conclave concluded on Saturday at Mayfair Spring Valley Resort near Guwahati with a strong push from Union Minister of Mines G. Kishan Reddy for the Northeastern states to unlock their untapped mining potential and accelerate regional economic growth.

Bringing together key figures from the mining sector, the final day of the conclave saw participation from ministers and officials of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Sikkim, along with Union Mines Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao and representatives from the Geological Survey of India (GSI). The forum served as a platform for open dialogue on policy, strategy, and sustainable development in mining.

Reddy, in his keynote address, called on state governments and stakeholders to adopt a results-driven approach. “The Northeast holds enormous potential in mineral resources. We need a clear roadmap and a proactive mindset to convert this potential into real economic power,” he said, reinforcing the Centre’s support for the region’s development through mining reforms and capacity-building initiatives.

The session focused on a wide range of critical issues, including the exchange of best practices, review of allotted and pending mining blocks, identification of new potential sites, and streamlining of allotment and clearance procedures. Discussions also touched on the availability of both minor and major minerals in the region, sustainable extraction practices, and resolving hurdles like land acquisition, environmental clearances, and compensation mechanisms.

Assam Mines and Minerals Minister Kaushik Rai highlighted the state’s rich mineral reserves and reiterated Assam’s commitment to transparent and sustainable mining. He noted that under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s leadership, the state has shifted to clean auction-based license allotments to ensure fairness and accountability.

“Our focus is not only on increasing production but also on generating employment and boosting revenue without compromising environmental standards,” Rai said. He also thanked the Union Ministry of Mines for its consistent support in strengthening Assam’s mining ecosystem.

As the conclave wrapped up, consensus emerged on the need for coordinated action, innovation in mineral governance, and region-specific strategies to turn the Northeast into a key mining hub in India’s growth story.