The first day of the 4th Conference of Mining Ministers in Goa focused on mineral exploration, technology-led governance and closer coordination between the Centre and States. The conference was attended by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey, senior officials and mining ministers from participating States. The Ministry of Mines launched the 9th Tranche of Critical and Strategic Mineral Block Auction, offering 20 blocks across eight States. The blocks include deposits of rare earth elements, graphite and vanadium, which are important for strengthening domestic mineral security. The 3rd Tranche of Exploration Licence Auction was also launched, covering 11 exploration blocks across six States. The Indian Bureau of Mines introduced ANVESH and EKAM, digital portals designed to support data-based decision-making and improve transparency in the mining sector. ANVESH will provide access to mining-related information, including mineral production, despatch, sale quantities, average sale prices, and import and export data. The initiatives are intended to modernise mineral governance and improve access to sector information. Speakers at the conference highlighted the need to accelerate exploration, strengthen domestic mineral production and address implementation challenges. Discussions also covered the processing, refining and recycling of critical minerals, adoption of modern technologies, sustainable mining, responsible resource use and the importance of State participation in developing the sector. The Additional Secretaries of the Ministries of Mines and Coal presented sectoral priorities, key developments and issues requiring coordinated action. Mining ministers from participating States shared concerns related to implementation, State-specific challenges and support required from the Central Government. The first day ended with renewed emphasis on Centre-State cooperation and the development of India’s mining and coal sectors. The conference will continue on 6 November 2026.