PROBLEMS IN STREAMLINING THE GEMSTONE SECTOR OF GILGIT-BALTISTAN: PERSPECTIVES OF GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

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