Panjsher Begins Issuing Licences for Precious Stone Extraction

PANJSHIR, Afghanistan (Afghan Verified) -- Authorities in central Panjshir province have launched a programme to issue licences for the extraction of 17 types of precious and semi-precious stones from deposits across several districts.

The minerals include ruby, beryl, aquamarine, green garnet, ametrine, crystal, citrine, aventurine, prasiolite, hawk's eye quartz, chalcedony, agate, tourmaline, microcline, moonstone and others, according to officials from the Panjshir Department of Mines and Petroleum and the governor's office.

Deposits have been identified in the districts of Anaba, Rokha, Abshar, Dara, Hesa-i-Awal, Paryan and Bazarak. The sites were surveyed and verified last year by specialists from the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum in collaboration with the provincial department.

Officials reported strong interest from local residents, traders and young people in investing in the mining operations. The governor's office stated that mining activities in Panjshir, particularly for emerald, have expanded since the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

The licensing programme aims to formalize extraction efforts and encourage investment in the province's rich gemstone resources.