Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced on August 17, 2026 that the State will resume mining operations after October 15. He made the announcement while inaugurating a workshop on the auction of critical and strategic mineral blocks in Patna organised by the Ministry of Coal and Mines, Government of India. The event was aimed at preparing the framework for competitive bidding and regulatory compliance. The chief minister stated that the State government will carry out a survey of 44 mining blocks and begin work to make them operational within nine months. Officials at the workshop outlined a schedule for surveys, clearances and infrastructure upgrades to facilitate rapid deployment. The plan is intended to create an actionable timeline for both state and central agencies. He said that mineral royalties will be allocated to welfare programmes and the State's development, and that measures will be put in place to ensure that mineral wealth is not misused at any level. The administration indicated that revenue flows would be monitored and directed towards social infrastructure, health and local development projects. Authorities also signalled that safeguards and audits would accompany the operationalisation process. Officials expect the restart of mining to support local economies, generate employment and attract fresh investment in mineral and related sectors. The ministry workshop was a step towards creating a clearer policy environment for auctions and investment, and the State indicated that it would coordinate with central authorities to expedite approvals. Administrative sources said the focus would remain on sustainable extraction and compliance with environmental norms. State officials noted that stakeholders at the workshop included regulators, industry representatives and local administrators who discussed logistics, land access and compliance. The emphasis was on creating predictable timelines for auctions and post-award mobilisation, with proposals for joint monitoring committees to oversee progress. The government affirmed that public accountability would guide the process.