CHANDIGARH: Punjab Mines and Geology Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal presented the state’s crucial mining issues and policy demands during the high-level Conference of Mining Ministers on Reforms in Mines and Coal Sector held in Goa on November 5-6, 2026. The national conference, chaired by Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, witnessed Punjab highlighting its remarkable advancements in mining governance while seeking equitable central support for states primarily dependent on minor minerals.
The Union Minister assured complete cooperation in resolving Punjab’s concerns and agreed to examine the state’s representation regarding the SASCI framework. During this, Punjab Mines and Geology Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said, “Punjab has secured the first position among Category-C States under the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) in FY 2025-26, earning a financial incentive of ₹200 crore for its exemplary mining reforms. However, the revised criteria under SASCI 2026-27 predominantly prioritise major mineral mine auctions and their operationalisation.”
Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said, “Punjab has significant potential to contribute towards national mineral security. We have presented a comprehensive roadmap for potash exploration currently underway in Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib, alongside hydrocarbon exploration facilitated under Mission Anveshan.”
Various state-specific matters concerning the mining sector were discussed in detail during the meeting. A follow-up meeting on the issues deliberated upon will be scheduled shortly in Chandigarh to ensure that the discussions translate into concrete action.
