India has taken a big step in unlocking its critical mineral resources! On Thursday, Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy launched the nation’s first-ever auction of Exploration Licences (ELs) for 13 blocks of critical minerals, including rare earth elements (REE), zinc, diamonds, copper, and platinum group minerals (PGE).

The event also featured a roadshow on the 5th Tranche of Critical Mineral Blocks and the launch of AI Hackathon 2025, focusing on “Mineral Targeting using AI.”

Reddy highlighted India’s mining sector growth over the last decade, stating that the new auction system will bring transparency, efficiency, and private sector participation. The framework allows private companies to explore up to 1,000 square metres per licence, with states like Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Karnataka offering exploration opportunities.

The 2023 amendment to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act aims to bridge the gap in private sector participation and boost systematic mineral exploration.

Goa CM Pramod Sawant emphasised the importance of critical minerals for India’s future green energy, stating that the policy will help the country achieve self-reliance on key resources while boosting Goa’s mining sector.

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