In a significant policy overhaul, the Centre Government has classified all types of Limestone as a major mineral and ended its earlier dual classification based on end use. The decision, notified by the Ministry of Mines, mandates that all Limestone mines across India will henceforth be auctioned. The move effectively prevents State Governments from allocating limestone blocks directly and aims to bring uniformity and transparency in the mineral allocation process.
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End-Use Restriction Removed
Until now, limestone used in kilns for Lime production was treated as a minor mineral, while other categories such as those used in Cement, Fertilizers, or Steel were considered major. The new notification eliminates this distinction, allowing leaseholders to sell or use Limestone for any industrial purpose without prior approval. Officials said this change is expected to simplify business procedures and reduce bureaucratic delays in the mining sector.
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Registration Deadline Set for Existing Leaseholders
Existing leaseholders holding minor mineral limestone rights have been directed to register with the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) by March 2026. They must also pay royalties as per rates fixed by respective State Governments. Current mining plans approved under earlier rules will remain valid till March 2027, giving operators time to transition smoothly to the new regime.
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According to the Mines Ministry, India produced 449.58 million tonnes of limestone in 2024–25, making it the most mined mineral in the country by volume. The reclassification is expected to attract more competitive bidding, improve regulatory oversight, and support the Government’s Ease of Doing Business initiative. Officials said the reform marks another step toward creating a more transparent and investor-friendly mining framework.
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