Pakistan Gemstone and Minerals Association Faces Major Challenges in Gilgit-Baltistan
The Pakistan Gemstone and Minerals Association (PGMA) is encountering significant difficulties in Gilgit-Baltistan. These include strict regulatory conditions, challenges in obtaining No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) and explosive licenses, and severe economic impacts such as unemployment and revenue losses.
Convention Highlights
During a major convention held on Wednesday, PGMA members highlighted the challenges faced by mine workers in the region. One member stated, “Due to strict conditions, it has become a problem for us to get a no-objection certificate (NOC) for using explosive materials in mines. As a result, all mining activities have ceased, which is detrimental to our business. We urgently request authorities to address these issues, as our sector is suffering. We call on the Pakistan government to resolve this matter promptly so that mining operations can resume.”
The member further noted, “Previously, obtaining documentation and power of attorney was straightforward, but now the power of attorney and explosive license has been removed. This is a critical issue because all mines in PoGB are now closed, leading to unemployment. All stakeholders had recommended major changes to the 2024 mineral rules, but no action has been taken so far.”
Potential Protests
The PGMA has warned that if their demands are not addressed, they will begin protesting on the roads after a one-week deadline expires. In Gilgit-Baltistan, various associations frequently protest due to ongoing issues related to governance, economic hardship, and regional autonomy. These protests reflect the region’s struggle for better governance, equitable treatment, and improved living conditions.
Doubts Revealed
Pakistan Gemstone and Minerals Association (PGMA) -: The Pakistan Gemstone and Minerals Association (PGMA) is a group of people and companies in Pakistan who work with precious stones and minerals. They help manage and support the mining and selling of these valuable resources.
Gilgit-Baltistan -: Gilgit-Baltistan is a region in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its beautiful mountains and is rich in natural resources like gemstones and minerals.
regulations -: Regulations are rules made by the government that people and companies must follow. In this case, the rules are about how to mine and sell gemstones and minerals.
licenses -: Licenses are official permissions given by the government to do certain activities, like mining. Without a license, people cannot legally mine gemstones and minerals.
economic impacts -: Economic impacts are changes that affect the money and jobs in a region. For example, if mining stops, people might lose their jobs, leading to unemployment.
unemployment -: Unemployment means not having a job. When people lose their jobs, they don’t have money to buy things they need, which can make life difficult.
convention -: A convention is a large meeting where people discuss important topics. In this case, PGMA members met to talk about the problems they are facing.
protests -: Protests are when people gather to show they are unhappy about something. They want the government or other leaders to listen to their problems and make changes.
governance -: Governance is how a region or country is managed by its leaders. Good governance means fair and effective management, while poor governance can lead to problems like protests.
