India’s Mines Ministry is set to launch the country’s inaugural auction of exploration licences on Thursday, paving the way for the sale of 13 blocks to explore mineral resources such as zinc, diamond, and copper.
The first phase of the auction will focus on exploration licences for zinc, diamond, and copper, with the bidding process taking place online. The auction will kick off in Goa.
Following the enactment of the MMDR Amendment Act in 2023, exploration licences were introduced to encourage private sector involvement in the reconnaissance and prospecting of 29 critical minerals, including lithium, copper, cobalt, gold, and silver.
The introduction of these licences aims to increase private sector participation and expedite exploration activities as part of India’s efforts to enhance mineral security and self-reliance.
The Ministry also announced a roadshow for the fifth tranche of critical mineral blocks as part of the program.
The news article was originally published on March 12, 2025.
