National News

E-Auction for Mineral Blocks

August 19 , 2026 13 hrs 0 min 72 0

The Ministry of Mines held a roadshow in Patna, Bihar for the 8th tranche of Critical and Strategic Mineral Block Auctions.
The tranche covers 20 mineral blocks across nine states, comprising 3 Mining Leases and 17 Composite Licences.
Minerals include graphite, rare earth elements, lithium, vanadium, gallium, titanium and tungsten, crucial for high-tech and strategic industries.
The auction was launched on 15 July 2026 through an e-auction mechanism under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
A Mining Lease permits mineral extraction, while a Composite Licence combines prospecting rights with a mining lease for areas requiring further exploration.