Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy addressed the Pravasi Rajasthani Divas celebrations in Jaipur, highlighting the pivotal role of the Indian diaspora in advancing India’s mining sector to international benchmarks.
Extending warm greetings to Pravasi Bharatiyas worldwide, Shri Reddy said the diaspora remains deeply rooted in India’s cultural and emotional fabric despite living abroad. He noted that their contribution extends far beyond remittances, bringing with them investment, innovation, and new global opportunities. Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s description of the diaspora as Rashtradhoot, the Minister said they carry India’s values, identity, and potential across the world.
He emphasised that the diaspora can play a transformative role in elevating the mining capabilities of Rajasthan—and India—to global standards.
Rajasthan: A Treasured Mining Hub
Shri Reddy underlined Rajasthan’s rich natural resources, calling it not only a jewel of India’s cultural legacy but also a treasure house of mining heritage. The state has been a pioneer in mineral extraction since ancient times, and today remains a crucial contributor to India’s mineral security. Rajasthan leads in the production and export of marble, granite, sandstone, and slate, making it a cornerstone of the country’s mining economy.
Reforms Driving India’s Mining Transformation
The Minister highlighted that India’s mining sector is now driven by cooperative and competitive federalism, enabling states to unlock their full potential. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the sector has witnessed landmark reforms, including:
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Introduction of transparent auction systems
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Greater participation of the private sector
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100% FDI permitted in exploration
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Significant improvements in the Ease of Doing Business
These reforms, Shri Reddy said, are reshaping India’s mineral ecosystem and ensuring long-term resource security.
Critical Minerals, New Technologies and Major Investments
The Minister spotlighted the National Critical Minerals Mission, with an outlay of ₹34,300 crore, aimed at making India self-reliant in essential minerals required for modern industries. For the first time, Exploration Licenses have been auctioned, with seven blocks already allocated, signalling growing private sector participation.
He also referred to the government’s ₹1,500 crore Recycling Scheme, which aims to create an annual recycling potential of 3 lakh tonnes and ensure the recovery of about 40,000 tonnes of critical minerals by 2030.
Coal Sector: Record Transformation
Discussing the coal sector, Shri Reddy said it has undergone a complete transformation. Commercial coal mining has opened new avenues for private investment, boosting production, competition and operational efficiency. Special focus on coal gasification—including the first-ever auction of underground gasification blocks—is unlocking major investment opportunities.
Diaspora’s Role in Shaping India’s Global Mining Future
Shri Reddy said India’s mining sector is at a defining moment, with vast potential for investment, innovation and global competitiveness. The diaspora, he emphasised, possesses the expertise, vision and global networks needed to help India realise these opportunities.
He encouraged overseas Indians to collaborate with institutions like KABIL (Khanij Bidesh India Ltd.) in acquiring critical mineral assets abroad, strengthening India’s strategic resource capabilities.
Concluding his address, the Minister called upon the global Indian community to join hands in making Rajasthan a capital of opportunities and positioning India as a global mining powerhouse.