India鈥檚 First Exploration Licence Auction Launched in Goa
17 Mar 2025
2 Min Read
CW Team
In a historic move, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Government of Goa, has launched India鈥檚 first-ever auction of Exploration Licences (ELs). The landmark event, graced by Union Minister for Coal & Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, and Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, marks a significant reform in India鈥檚 mineral exploration sector, aimed at unlocking critical and deep-seated mineral resources.
Alongside this, the 5th Tranche of Auction of Critical Mineral Blocks was inaugurated, along with the launch of AI Hackathon 2025, focused on 鈥楳ineral Targeting using AI鈥�.
13 Exploration Licence Blocks were put up for auction, covering critical minerals such as:
Rare Earth Elements (REE)
Zinc
Diamond
Copper
Platinum Group Elements (PGE)
This transparent online bidding process is designed to:
Accelerate systematic mineral exploration
Enhance private sector participation
Reduce import dependency
Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy:
"For the first time, India is introducing a structured and transparent auction process for early-stage exploration. This reform will boost investor confidence, accelerate critical mineral discoveries, and pave the way for a self-reliant mineral ecosystem aligned with India鈥檚 clean energy and industrial ambitions."
Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant:
"Goa has a rich mining legacy, and we are committed to responsible, technology-driven mineral development. These reforms will unlock India鈥檚 mineral potential while ensuring sustainable mining practices."
In a historic move, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Government of Goa, has launched India鈥檚 first-ever auction of Exploration Licences (ELs). The landmark event, graced by Union Minister for Coal & Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, and Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, marks a significant reform in India鈥檚 mineral exploration sector, aimed at unlocking critical and deep-seated mineral resources.
Alongside this, the 5th Tranche of Auction of Critical Mineral Blocks was inaugurated, along with the launch of AI Hackathon 2025, focused on 鈥楳ineral Targeting using AI鈥�.
13 Exploration Licence Blocks were put up for auction, covering critical minerals such as:
Rare Earth Elements (REE)
Zinc
Diamond
Copper
Platinum Group Elements (PGE)
This transparent online bidding process is designed to:
Accelerate systematic mineral exploration
Enhance private sector participation
Reduce import dependency
Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy:
For the first time, India is introducing a structured and transparent auction process for early-stage exploration. This reform will boost investor confidence, accelerate critical mineral discoveries, and pave the way for a self-reliant mineral ecosystem aligned with India鈥檚 clean energy and industrial ambitions.
Goa CM Dr. Pramod Sawant:
Goa has a rich mining legacy, and we are committed to responsible, technology-driven mineral development. These reforms will unlock India鈥檚 mineral potential while ensuring sustainable mining practices.
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