Date | 20.01.2025:
The Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Odisha Government, successfully concluded the first day of 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference in Konark, Odisha today. The event saw the participation of Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Chief Minister of Odisha Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, 14 State Mining Ministers, senior Ministry officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders.
Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, in his address, highlighted the transformative potential of India’s mining sector in achieving the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He emphasized the importance of critical minerals in bolstering infrastructure, industries, and national security. Shri Reddy stated, “India will be the global destination for critical minerals. We are pioneering offshore mineral auctions for the first time in 75 years to enhance self-reliance and reduce import dependence.” He also emphasized the need for states to accelerate exploration and the auctioning of critical minerals while ensuring sustainable mining practices.
Chief Minister of Odisha Shri Mohan Charan Majhi reiterated Odisha’s pivotal role in India’s mining landscape, emphasizing its rich mineral resources and commitment to sustainable mining. “Odisha will continue to lead the country in achieving the dream of a Viksit Bharat. We are dedicated to maximizing mineral resources while maintaining environmental and socio-economic balance,” he said.
During the conference, several initiatives were unveiled. The Best Practices on Mine Closure booklet, outlining strategies for effective mine closure with minimal environmental and social impacts, and the States’ Best Practices in Mining booklet, highlighting innovative and sustainable approaches adopted by various states, were released.
A key highlight was the launch of the Mining Tenement System (MTS) by Shri G. Kishan Reddy and Shri Mohan Charan Majhi. This advanced digital platform is designed to streamline processes, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency in mineral resource management.
The conference also marked the launch of Fifth Tranche of Critical Mineral Block Auctions, offering 15 blocks across eight states, including essential minerals like Graphite, Tungsten, Rare Earth Elements (REE), and Nickel. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging India’s mineral wealth for economic growth and strategic self-sufficiency.
Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, highlighted the government’s focus on domestic critical mineral production through the soon-to-be-launched National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM). He also noted that 75% of mining block auctions have been conducted in the last four years, with Odisha contributing ₹1.33 lakh crore in mineral revenue over the past decade.
The conference provided a platform for State Mining Ministers to share their visions for the mining sector in their respective states. Ministry officials delivered insightful presentations on topics such as AI in exploration, offshore mining facilitation, and operationalization of mineral blocks.
Day 2 of the event promises to be equally productive, with impactful sessions lined up to drive meaningful discussions and collaborations. Highlights include presentations from 11 states showcasing their auction processes and best practices, fostering a platform for knowledge sharing and innovation. Additionally, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) will deliver key insights on forest and environmental issues, providing a roadmap for sustainable development. The Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) will also present critical updates on safety measures and advancements in the mining sector.
These sessions will pave the way for informed decision-making and progressive policies, ensuring a balanced approach to growth and environmental conservation. This landmark event underscores the collaborative efforts between the Central and State Governments, aiming to foster innovation, transparency, and sustainability in India’s mining sector while steering the nation toward a self-reliant and prosperous future.
Glimpses of 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference in Konark.
Chief Guest Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, along with Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Telangana, and Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and State Mining Minister of Bihar, have officially commenced the conference with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the collective commitment to advancing India’s mining industry.
Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, in his address at the 3rd National Mining Ministers’ Conference, emphasized the importance of making India self-reliant in mineral resources. He highlighted the transformative role of the mining sector in strengthening the country’s infrastructure and industries, supporting the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Shri Reddy stressed the need to focus on critical minerals, essential for economic growth and national security, and urged states to expedite exploration and auctioning of these minerals. He also recognized the growing potential of offshore mining, marking India’s first offshore mineral auction in 75 years, which will reduce import dependence and contribute significantly to India’s self-sufficiency. The Minister underlined the need for sustainable mining practices, the Mining Surveillance System to curb illegal mining, and effective mine closure to mitigate environmental and social risks. India will be a global destination for critical minerals, with states encouraged to focus on a single-window system for mines project clearance.
Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Hon'ble Chief Minister of Odisha, in his address, highlighted the state's leadership in the mining sector, emphasizing Odisha's role in driving economic growth through responsible and sustainable mining practices. He stressed the need for collaboration between State and Central Governments to maximize the potential of Odisha's mineral resources while ensuring environmental protection and socio-economic development. As a mineral-rich state, Odisha is poised to lead the country in achieving the vision of a Vikshit Bharat.
Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, alongside Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, launched the Fifth Tranche offering 15 critical mineral blocks. This includes 2 blocks for Mining Lease and 13 for Composite Licence, located across 8 states. Key minerals like Graphite, Tungsten, REE, Nickel and Phosphorite are included. Eight blocks are up for auction under the ‘Second Attempt’ as per Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015.
Hon'ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi and Hon'ble Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy presented awards for excellence in mineral block auctions. Rajasthan secured the top position, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, for their outstanding contribution in conducting highest number of auctions in FY 2023-24.
Hon'ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, handed over a total of 19 Geological Memorandums at the 3rd National Mines Ministers’ Conference. Out of these, 12 critical mineral memorandums were entrusted to Ms. Farida M. Naik, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Mines, while the remaining 7 memorandums, covering precious, bulk, and base metal commodities, were handed over to the respective State Governments. This marks a significant step towards bolstering India’s mineral resources and fostering sustainable development.
Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, addressed the 3rd National Mines Ministers’ Conference in Konark, highlighting significant achievements in the mining sector. He shared that 75% of mining block auctions have been conducted in the last four years, with Odisha generating ₹1.33 lakh crore in mineral revenue over a decade. He also announced that the National Critical Mineral Mission (CMM) will be launched soon to boost domestic production and reduce import dependence. Additionally, offshore mining auctions are set to enhance self-reliance. The conference aims to drive innovation, efficiency, and collaboration for a sustainable mining future.
(Source: https://pib.gov.in/)