Introduction
AJK Government established Department of Industry, Commerce, Labor, Sericulture and Minerals Development in 1954.
Minerals section was initially included as a wing or part of the Industry Department with only four Officials, i.e. Assistant Director, Royalty Inspector Surveyor and a Chainman/Peon.
In 2002, GoAJK established Department of Mineral Resources (Licensing Division) vide Notification No.3326-35 dated 10th July 2002.
OBJECTIVES
To expand the mining sector by focusing on the discovery of minerals. To enhance public sector investment for exploration, resource mapping, and development of GIS-data base for minerals. To create jobs opportunities for the people of AJ&K. To enhance the contribution of mineral sector to GDP. To shift from traditional regulatory functions to those of a facilitator.
VISION
To envisage fundamental improvements for exploration, exploitation, and development of minerals through the Public / Private sectors for socio-economic uplift and poverty alleviation of the people of Azad Jammu & Kashmir along with the strengthening of the department, removing infrastructure bottlenecks and encouraging investments.
FUNCTIONS
To grant the Mineral Titles (Exploration & Mining Permits, Mining Leases) in the State. To supervise the Licensing/Regulations of the Mineral Titles/activities in the State. To regulate the safety of mine work force. To regulate the labor regulations in the mineral sector. To improve data base of State mineral resources. Sustainable development of mineral bearing areas.