Context: Punjab's Mining Minister announced plans to explore potash mining in the districts of Fazilka and Sri Muktsar Sahib. Surveys previously conducted in these areas have identified significant mineral reserves in three mining blocks.

What Is Potash?

• Potash refers to potassium-rich minerals primarily used in fertilisers.

• Over 90% of potash produced globally is utilised in agriculture.

• It is one of three main nutrients essential for plant growth, alongside nitrogen and phosphorus.

• Potash comes in various forms, including Sulphate of Potash (SOP) and Muriate of Potash (MOP).

• SOP is chloride-free and favoured for high-value crops.

• MOP contains chloride and is mainly used for carbohydrate-rich crops like wheat.

Potash Reserves in India

• India imports approximately 5 million tonnes of potash annually.

• The recent discoveries in Punjab make it the second state with potash reserves, following Rajasthan.

• Key mining blocks in Punjab include Kabarwala, Sherewala, and Ramsara in Fazilka, and Shergarh and Dalmir Khera in Muktsar Sahib.

• In Rajasthan, the primary deposits are found in the Nagaur-Ganganagar basin, particularly in Ganganagar and Hanumangarh districts.

Exploration History

• The GSI conducted extensive exploration from 1974 to 1991, mainly in Rajasthan. Recent explorations since 2017 have revealed potash deposits in Punjab. Despite the identified reserves, the mining process has not yet commenced due to various challenges.

Challenges to Mining Operations

• Concerns from local farmers have delayed potash extraction. Farmers fear land acquisition for mining operations. In response, the minister assured that advanced drilling techniques would be used to minimise land impact. A comprehensive environmental and social impact assessment is also underway.

Economic Implications

• Potash mining in Punjab could create new employment opportunities and stimulate regional economic development. The Kabarwala block has reached the auctioning stage, pending central government approval. However, farmers seek written assurances regarding their land before operations can begin.

Current Status and Challenges

• India imports 50 lakh tonnes of potash annually.

• Punjab reserves discovered in 2019, approximately 450 meters below surface.

Challenges

• Farmer concerns about land acquisition.

• Need for environmental and social impact assessment.

• Auctioning process by the central government.

Potential Benefits

• Reduced import dependence for potash.

• Boost to domestic fertilizer industry.

• New employment opportunities.

• Regional economic development.

Road Ahead

• Government assurance to farmers regarding land ownership.

• Thorough environmental and social impact assessment.

• Expedited auctioning process by the central government.

• Addressing farmer concerns to proceed with extraction.