Centre To Launch Bid For 19 Critical Mineral Blocks In Seventh Tranche

26 Mar 2026 CW Team

The Centre will launch the seventh tranche of auctions for critical and strategic minerals, offering 19 blocks across several states as part of a push to strengthen domestic supply chains. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy, accompanied by Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey, will formally launch the auction round, the Mines Ministry said. The ministry framed the move as a step to secure raw materials vital for emerging technologies and key industries.

The latest tranche follows six earlier rounds of auctions in which 46 blocks have been sold, and it will offer blocks under both mining lease and composite licence arrangements. Officials said the exercise is intended to attract investment into domestic extraction and processing capacity. The scheme builds on policy measures aimed at reducing import dependence and improving supply chain resilience.

The development assumes significance as the government seeks to bolster India's self-reliance in clean energy, advanced technologies and fertilisers amid global supply disruptions. Critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, rare earth elements, tungsten and titanium are central to the transition and to strategic sectors. Limited global availability of these materials and their concentration in a few regions have elevated concerns about supply security.

The Mines Ministry will also host the National District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Summit 2026 over two days to discuss mining-linked development and welfare, and the summit is expected to focus on enhancing benefit flows to affected communities. Observers said the auction round is a key step in ensuring steady access to critical resources as India accelerates its shift to a more technology-driven and energy-secure economy. The ministry indicated that continued auction rounds will remain part of a broader strategy to develop domestic capabilities and attract responsible investment.

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