Since the introduction of the auction-based allocation regime in 2015, 101 auctioned mineral blocks have become operational, marking a significant milestone for India’s mineral industry. The accomplishment is a reflection of the government’s efforts to strengthen domestic resource security and implement transparent mining reforms.
The Ministry of Mines reports that 212 mineral blocks were put up for auction in FY 2025–2026, which was the best annual performance under the auction regime ever. It is anticipated that the operationalized blocks will improve the availability of raw materials for important industries like infrastructure, steel, cement, and aluminum.
With 34 operationalized blocks, Odisha tops the nation, followed by Gujarat with 11 and Karnataka with 18. Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh are more states that contribute. Nine months after the Letter of Intent was issued, Assam operationalized its first block.
Of the operationalized blocks, 47 are made of iron ore and 29 are made of limestone. Manganese ore, chromite, and bauxite are further minerals.
The Ministry stated that in order to achieve the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047, coordinated efforts between the federal government and state governments, as well as quicker approvals and regulatory changes, have accelerated the transition of auctioned mines into production.
Source – Newsable Asianet News
