India set to auction mineral blocks for green energy transition
COAL & MINING

India set to auction mineral blocks for green energy transition

India is gearing up to launch the auction process for roughly 100 critical mineral blocks within the next four months, a vital step in ensuring a steady supply of raw materials crucial for the nation's green energy transition. These mineral blocks encompass resources such as nickel, lithium, cobalt, platinum, rare earths, and more.

Mines Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj shared in an interview that the legal framework is already in place, and the specific mineral blocks have been identified for auction. It is anticipated that the tender for bids will be released by December, with auctions commencing around three months thereafter.

India's urgent focus on securing critical minerals stems from its ambitious plans to become a prominent hub for battery and electric vehicle manufacturing while also striving to achieve net-zero emissions. Presently, India does not domestically mine key materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, making the auction process a critical step toward mineral self-sufficiency.

To incentivise both global and local mining companies to participate in this endeavour, the government plans to reimburse half of the exploration costs. Bharadwaj explained that it may take companies at least three years to bring these mining projects into operation.

India recently amended its mining regulations to encourage exploration of essential minerals like lithium, permitting private miners to engage in the search for these materials. These regulatory changes are pivotal for auctioning lithium blocks recently identified in Jammu and Kashmir and Karnataka.

Several state-run companies have been actively seeking such mineral assets worldwide, while energy giants like Coal India and NTPC are devising strategies for mineral mining. Additionally, Khanij Bidesh India, a joint venture involving three government-run firms, has been established to acquire critical mineral assets overseas, with a primary focus on Australia and South America.

India is gearing up to launch the auction process for roughly 100 critical mineral blocks within the next four months, a vital step in ensuring a steady supply of raw materials crucial for the nation's green energy transition. These mineral blocks encompass resources such as nickel, lithium, cobalt, platinum, rare earths, and more.Mines Secretary Vivek Bharadwaj shared in an interview that the legal framework is already in place, and the specific mineral blocks have been identified for auction. It is anticipated that the tender for bids will be released by December, with auctions commencing around three months thereafter.India's urgent focus on securing critical minerals stems from its ambitious plans to become a prominent hub for battery and electric vehicle manufacturing while also striving to achieve net-zero emissions. Presently, India does not domestically mine key materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, making the auction process a critical step toward mineral self-sufficiency.To incentivise both global and local mining companies to participate in this endeavour, the government plans to reimburse half of the exploration costs. Bharadwaj explained that it may take companies at least three years to bring these mining projects into operation.India recently amended its mining regulations to encourage exploration of essential minerals like lithium, permitting private miners to engage in the search for these materials. These regulatory changes are pivotal for auctioning lithium blocks recently identified in Jammu and Kashmir and Karnataka.Several state-run companies have been actively seeking such mineral assets worldwide, while energy giants like Coal India and NTPC are devising strategies for mineral mining. Additionally, Khanij Bidesh India, a joint venture involving three government-run firms, has been established to acquire critical mineral assets overseas, with a primary focus on Australia and South America.

Next Story
Resources

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Next Story
Resources

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Next Story
Building Material

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?