NewKerala.com

India Launches 2nd Tranche of Mineral Exploration Blocks to Boost Self-Reliance

Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy launched the second tranche of auction for Exploration Licence blocks, emphasizing the need to accelerate domestic mineral exploration. He highlighted the government's commitment to a transparent, technology-driven framework to unlock India's mineral potential and achieve self-reliance. The event also saw the launch of the Geological Survey of India's AI-enabled Next-Generation Portal to enhance data-driven exploration. Officials stated the new tranche includes 11 blocks of critical minerals across eight states, building on the reforms introduced under the MMDR Amendment Act.

Key Points: India Launches 2nd Tranche of Exploration Licence Blocks

  • Launches 2nd auction of Exploration Licence blocks
  • Aims to reduce mineral import dependence
  • Unveils AI-powered GSI Next-Gen Portal
  • 11 blocks across eight states for critical minerals
2 min read

G Kishan Reddy launches 2nd tranche of Exploration Licence blocks

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy launches 11 critical mineral blocks to reduce import dependence and accelerate domestic exploration for Viksit Bharat.

G Kishan Reddy launches 2nd tranche of Exploration Licence blocks
"These are not mere reforms, but a reform express. - G. Kishan Reddy"

New Delhi, February 12

Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy on Thursday launched the 2nd tranche of auction of Exploration Licence blocks, marking another significant step towards strengthening India's mineral exploration ecosystem, a release said.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister underscored the need to reduce India's dependence on mineral imports by accelerating domestic exploration and encouraging greater participation of the private sector alongside government agencies.

He reiterated that the Government is committed to building a structured, transparent and technology-driven exploration framework to unlock the country's untapped mineral potential.

Emphasising the strategic importance of critical minerals, Reddy stated that a robust and efficient exploration regime will play a pivotal role in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and enhancing self-reliance in the mineral sector.

Reddy further remarked that the Government of India is undertaking reforms across sectors in pursuit of the vision of Viksit Bharat.

"These are not mere reforms, but a reform express," he said, adding that the mining sector is also witnessing transformative changes aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency and investment.

During the event, the Union Minister also launched the Geological Survey of India's (GSI) Next-Generation (NG) Portal -- a cloud-enabled platform integrating data acquisition, analysis, visualization and dissemination. Equipped with AI/ML-based tools and interoperable with the National Geoscience Data Repository (NGDR), the portal is expected to significantly enhance transparency, efficiency and data-driven decision-making in mineral exploration, as per the release.

The Launch and Roadshow of Tranche-II was graced by Piyush Goyal, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, and Sanjay Lohia, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines

In his address, Piyush Goyal, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, stated that Tranche-II marks a significant step towards accelerating growth in the mineral sector. Following the encouraging response to Tranche-I, the new tranche comprises 11 blocks of critical and deep-seated minerals spread across eight States.

He highlighted that the Exploration Licence regime introduced under the MMDR Amendment Act, 2023, along with the Mineral (Auction) Amendment Rules, 2023, has strengthened transparency, improved ease of doing business, and expanded opportunities for participation by both private and public sector players.

Presentations were made on "Exploration Licence Blocks under Tranche-II" by GSI; "Exploration Licence Regime and Rules" by SBICAPS; "Mineral Auction Process and Tender Document" by SBICAPS; "Mineral e-Auction Process on MSTC Portal" by MSTC; and "Scheme for Partial Reimbursement of Exploration Expenses for Holders of Exploration Licences" by NMET.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good initiative, but transparency is key. We've heard promises before. The "reform express" needs to ensure local communities and the environment are protected, not just investors. The benefits must reach the people.
R
Rohit P
Finally focusing on deep-seated minerals! This is the future. The NG Portal integrating with NGDR is a game-changer for geologists and mining companies. Ease of doing business will attract serious players. 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
As someone working in sustainable development, I appreciate the push for technology and transparency. However, the article doesn't mention any environmental safeguards or community consultation protocols. Exploration should be responsible from day one.
V
Vikram M
Viksit Bharat 2047 needs a strong mineral base. This is strategic thinking. Encouraging private sector alongside GSI is the right move. Hope the states where these blocks are located also cooperate fully.
K
Karthik V
The partial reimbursement scheme for exploration expenses is a good incentive. Exploration is high-risk. This will help smaller players participate. Let's see how the auction goes. Jai Hind!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50