Mines Ministry launches 9th auction round offering 20 critical mineral blocks
Summary
- The Ministry of Mines announced the ninth tranche of mineral block auctions, putting 20 critical and strategic mineral blocks up for bidding.
- Across the first eight tranches, a total of 100 unique critical and strategic mineral blocks were offered.
- Out of those 100 blocks, 64 have been successfully auctioned to private and public sector participants.
- The auctions aim to boost domestic supply of critical minerals essential for defence, renewable energy and emerging technologies.
- The move is part of the government's broader strategy to reduce import dependence on strategic minerals.
Key Facts
- · Ninth round of auctions launched by Ministry of Mines.
- · 20 critical mineral blocks offered in this round.
- · 100 unique critical/strategic blocks offered in first eight tranches.
- · 64 blocks successfully auctioned till date.
- · Blocks include minerals essential for defence and clean energy.
- · Policy seeks to attract private investment and ensure supply security.
Why it matters
Securing critical minerals domestically reduces India's reliance on imports, supports defence and clean‑energy initiatives, and aligns with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision, making it a key economic and strategic priority for the country.
#Mines Ministry#critical minerals#auctions#strategic resources#import substitution#defence