India, Oct. 3 -- The Centre on Friday said the two mineral blocks in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir have been successfully auctioned, marking the beginning of organised mineral development in the region. The government of Jammu & Kashmir (UT) had entrusted the auction of mineral blocks to the Mines Ministry.

The sale of the two limestone blocks is likely to catalyse new investment and economic activity in the Union Territory. As mining and associated activities develop, they are expected to generate a large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities and create avenues for local businesses, entrepreneurs, service providers and allied industries.

Koot-Kapran limestone block has an estimated limestone resource of 4.75...