Vohra wants mineral resources utilized, Global tenders on cards
SRINAGAR: The state authorities are mulling fresh steps to exploit mineral resources as the Sapphire gems worth 60 lakh a carat lay buried in the J&K’s mountainous Padder Valley near Kishtwar district. The sources privy to the plans said the state government is looking at the possibility of floating global tenders extract the precious Sapphire from Padder.
The Governor Monday asked Financial Commissioner, Industries and Commerce, Department, Khurshid Ganai to take early steps for the scientific exploitation of the Sapphire mine at Padder, an official statement said here today.
Sapphire from Padder Valley in Kishtwar district is famous the world over for its unique peacock-blue color.
Jammu and Kashmir Minerals Limited (JKML) holds a mine lease over an area of 6.65 square kilometre on GT Sheet 52/C at Padder, at a height of 4,327 meters.
Extraction of these sapphires from mines in Padder began in 1885 and they achieved legendary status in the jewellery world. The gems mined during this period are valued highly and usually fetch enormous prices around the world, officials said.
Their colour holds up in all kinds of light, which experts describe as a magical property, as compared to other fine sapphires such as Burmese stones, which lose their rich colour in the evening light. The stone has a magical ‘velvety’ effect, creating a soft, yet strong colour.
The price of these pure sapphires easily crosses USD 100,000 a carat, making them the most expensive in their category.
Ganai, briefed the Governor about issues relating to industrial promotion, the obtaining entrepreneurial environment and the status of cottage and village industries, handicrafts and handloom sector in the State.
The Governor stressed the importance of every possible effort being made to secure balanced growth of the State through sustainable utilization of all available natural resources in the State.
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