Chandigarh: Punjab is poised to enter a new era of mineral exploration, with potash exploration expected to commence by the end of April or the first week of May 2027. The Centre has approved 35 boreholes in Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib districts, while the Punjab Government will drill five additional boreholes, taking the ongoing programme to 40.
Announcing this at a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Punjab Mines and Geology Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said the Bhagwant Mann Government has consistently pursued the matter with the Centre to unlock Punjab’s untapped mineral potential and strengthen India’s self-reliance in critical minerals.
Explaining the importance of the ongoing exercise, Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said, “Drilling boreholes is essential to ascertain the depth, quantity, quality and geological characteristics of potash deposits. Potash is a critical mineral for which India has almost 100 per cent import dependency. Domestic exploration is therefore vital to reducing our dependence on imports and strengthening the country’s mineral security.”
Highlighting the potential of the Shergarh block, Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said, “The 46-square-kilometre Shergarh block in Punjab has failed to attract bidders in recent auctions. We have urged the Union Ministry to encourage companies exploring the contiguous Nagaur-Ganganagar basin of Rajasthan to also participate in bidding for Shergarh. This approach can help unlock significant exploration potential and attract investment into Punjab.”
“Senior officials of the Union Ministry have assured full cooperation in resolving Punjab’s concerns and expediting the ongoing exploration activities. We will hold a follow-up meeting shortly in Chandigarh to ensure that the assurances given translate into concrete action within the stipulated timelines,” he said.
