The ministry of mines launched the ninth tranche of e-auctions for critical and strategic mineral blocks, continuing the government’s efforts to strengthen domestic mineral exploration and resource development. Under this latest auction round, the ministry is offering 20 critical and strategic mineral blocks in accordance with the provisions of the Mineral Auction Rules. These minerals are essential for several strategic and industrial sectors, including clean energy technologies, electric mobility, aerospace and electronics. In the previous eight auction tranches, the government offered 100 unique critical and strategic mineral blocks, of which 64 were successfully auctioned. The ninth tranche aims to further accelerate the development of India’s critical mineral resources and reduce dependence on imports.
Third Round of Exploration Licence Auctions
Alongside the critical mineral block auctions, the ministry of mines has also initiated the third round of exploration licence auctions to encourage greater private sector participation in mineral exploration, particularly for critical and deep-seated minerals. Under the exploration licence framework, private companies can undertake exploration activities for 29 specified minerals listed in the Seventh Schedule of the Act. This provision enables companies to identify and assess mineral resources before mining operations begin. As reported by projectstoday.ai, through these initiatives, the government aims to expand domestic mineral exploration, attract private investment and strengthen the supply chain for minerals that support India’s strategic, industrial and clean energy requirements.
