India Achieves Record Auction of 200 Mineral Blocks in 2025-26
In a remarkable feat, India’s mineral sector has set a new record in the financial year 2025-26 with the auction of 200 mineral blocks—the highest number ever auctioned in a single year. This landmark achievement is a testament to the effective collaboration between the Union and State Governments and demonstrates the growing maturity of India’s auction-based mineral allocation system.
Of the 200 blocks auctioned, 123 are classified as Mining Lease (ML) blocks and 77 as Composite Licence (CL) blocks. This diverse mix presents numerous opportunities, both for operational mining and exploration purposes. In a move to further boost the sector, Notices Inviting Tenders (NITs) for an additional 70 mineral blocks—comprising 38 ML and 32 CL—are in progress, which could escalate the total number of successful auctions this financial year.
State Contributors Shine
The Ministry of Mines has recognized the pivotal role that various states played in this achievement. Gujarat topped the chart with 32 blocks auctioned, followed closely by Rajasthan with 30 and Tamil Nadu with 22. These states have excelled in timely preparation of blocks, efficient data management, and streamlined processes, thereby reinforcing the national auction framework. Notably, Tamil Nadu held its first-ever mineral block auctions this year, marking a significant step forward, while Uttarakhand successfully participated in its first auction, securing a magnesite block.
Diverse Range of Minerals
The auctions included a broad variety of minerals. Limestone emerged as the leading mineral, with 76 blocks auctioned. Iron Ore followed closely behind with 40 blocks, while Bauxite accounted for 30 blocks, highlighting their vital role in key industrial sectors.
Focus on Critical Minerals
A standout moment of the year was the successful auction of 22 critical mineral blocks, reinforcing the focus on strategically important minerals crucial for long-term resource security. States such as Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, and Maharashtra contributed significantly to this endeavor, offering 5, 4, 4, 3, and 2 blocks, respectively.
The Ministry of Mines extends its gratitude to all State Governments for their proactive initiatives, supportive policies, and administrative prowess that enabled these record-breaking results. This accomplishment not only underscores India’s dedication to creating a transparent and efficient mineral allocation system but also supports sustained economic growth in the long run.
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