India: Emami Cement has won a limestone-mining lease in Rajasthan for a cost of US$4.5/t. The lease is for the Nagapur 3B1b Deh block that has an estimated reserve of 168Mt. It is the first non-coal mining lease to be sold via auction in the state, according to the Financial Express. Emami Cement will also have to pay royalties and make contributions to the district mineral foundation and national mineral exploration trust once it starts operation. Mining is expected to start in about 18 months subject to land acquisition, project planning and environmental clearance.
