The Ministry of Mines will launch the Sixth Tranche of Auction for Critical and Strategic Minerals on Monday, marking another step in India’s push for mineral security. Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy will also announce the preferred bidders for seven deep-seated mineral blocks auctioned under Tranche I of the Exploration Licence regime.
Also Read: Jharkhand High Court Ordered Suspension of All Sand Ghat Auction until PESA Rules Notified
The Government amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, to introduce auction-based Exploration Licences (EL) for 29 critical and deep-seated minerals. Under this model, private players can carry out reconnaissance and prospecting and will receive a share in revenue for 50 years from subsequent mining auctions. The seven blocks awarded in the first round include deposits of Gold, Copper, Lead, Zinc, Rare Earth Elements, and Platinum group minerals in Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
Also Read: Copper Deposits Found in Hazaribagh and Koderma, Auction Process to Begin Soon
Focus on Lithium, REE and Strategic Reserves
In the Sixth Tranche, the Centre will offer 04 mineral blocks for direct Mining Lease and 19 blocks for Composite Licence. The portfolio features Lithium, Tungsten, Graphite, Vanadium, Cobalt, Zirconium, Gallium, and Potash, minerals critical for batteries, electronics, and renewable energy technologies. The Government expects this to improve domestic availability, reduce import dependency, and enhance State revenues through future mining auctions.
Sustained Policy Push for Mineral Security
So far, five tranches of auctions have been completed, covering 55 blocks, with 34 successfully awarded. The sustained auction momentum will accelerate India’s progress toward becoming a hub for clean energy minerals and critical raw materials. State Governments stand to benefit significantly as auction revenues are shared with them.
Also Read: Coal Ministry Set to Open 13th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auction
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