Government Lifts Ban on Mineral Title Processing in Gilgit-Baltistan
The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan has lifted the ban on the processing of mineral titles, a restriction initially imposed by the Chief Minister in March 2021. The announcement was made in a notification issued by the Gilgit-Baltistan Civil Secretariat’s Minerals, Industries, Commerce, and Labour Department.
This decision follows deliberations in the 11th and 14th cabinet meetings of 2024 and aims to revitalize the mineral industry in the region. Gilgit-Baltistan is renowned for its rich deposits of precious and semi-precious minerals, including rubies, aquamarines, garnets, and topaz, making this development a significant milestone for economic growth and investment.
In a move toward modernization, the government has also approved the transition from a manual to an online system for managing mineral titles. Applications submitted prior to the March 4, 2021, ban will be processed first, with new applications to be accepted exclusively through the online portal starting January 6, 2025.
The new system is expected to streamline operations and increase transparency in the issuance of mining rights. Applications will be processed in line with the Gilgit-Baltistan Mining Concession Rules, as amended in 2019 and 2024.
Officials have underscored that this change will attract investors to Gilgit-Baltistan, where the mining sector holds untapped potential. The region’s abundance of gemstones and minerals offers an opportunity for significant revenue generation, employment, and community development.
Meanwhile business community of gems and minerals in Gilgit Baltistan have shown their concerns over the decision to digitization applications According to the business commute unity Giltot Baltistan specially in winter faces a crisis of power and communication which makes it difficult ao process applications and would gain no proof from the department.
This decision is anticipated to spark renewed interest in the mining activities in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region often referred to as a treasure trove of natural resources.
Write(Faheem Akhtar )
