India Sets New Benchmark with 200 Mineral Block Auctions
India has achieved a landmark milestone by successfully auctioning 200 mineral blocks during the financial year 2025–26, marking the highest number of auctions conducted in a single year since the introduction of the auction regime. This achievement reflects the growing effectiveness, transparency, and maturity of the mineral allocation framework in the country.
Out of the total auctions, 123 blocks were granted as Mining Leases (ML), enabling immediate commencement of production, while 77 were Composite Licences (CL), aimed at promoting systematic exploration followed by mining. Notably, 22 critical mineral blocks were auctioned, strengthening India’s long-term mineral security and supporting key sectors such as clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
Among the major minerals, limestone accounted for the highest number of auctions (76 blocks), followed by iron ore (40 blocks) and bauxite (30 blocks). States such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu emerged as leading contributors to this achievement. Tamil Nadu conducted mineral auctions for the first time, while Uttarakhand also joined the process with the auction of its first magnesite block.
In addition, around 70 mineral blocks are currently under various stages of tendering, indicating sustained momentum in the sector. The milestone underscores the success of cooperative federalism, with strong coordination between the Centre and States, and highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly governance in the mining sector.
