Problems in Streamlining the Gemstone Sector of Gilgit-Baltistan: Perspectives of Government Officials

ABSTRACT
This paper analyses the perceptions of staff members of the Mines and Mineral Department of Gilgit Baltistan using qualitative methodology. The paper relies on stakeholder workshops and five qualitative interviews conducted with the staff members of the Mines and Minerals Department of GB. The data reveals that artisanal and small-scale miners (ASMs) oppose mine leasing which creates hurdles for them in getting explosives and obtaining compensation in case of injuries and casualties. In some parts of GB, check posts are available for collection of collecting transit duties, but no mechanism is found to detect gemstones moving out of GB, their actual price, and subsequent transit duty fee. The department lacks enough human resources which is why it cannot extend full assistance to the mining sector in the region. Although, some improvements have been made in the form of training provisions and testing facilities still ASMs do not benefit from these opportunities. In addition to differences in perspectives between ASM and staff members of the mines and minerals department, the locals also dispute with each other on mining sites and possession. To resolve these disputes at the doorstep, a District Supervisory Committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner and comprising of locals and government officials is established in each district of GB. Yet these do not offer a viable solution. The concerned department also does not have any data about injuries and casualties in mines as neither data is shared by the miner nor they are registered with the department. That is why the government is unable to extend its support and compensation. Lastly, the direct intervention of external agents, and private sector and non-governmental organizations’ involvement in the illegal trading of gemstones is also blamed for the backwardness of the gems industry.