India Launches First-Ever Exploration Licence Auction to Boost Critical Mineral Discovery

Goa: In a landmark move to accelerate mineral exploration and reduce import dependency, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Government of Goa, launched India’s first-ever auction of Exploration Licences (ELs). The initiative was inaugurated by Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, alongside Goa Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, marking a significant step in unlocking the country’s untapped mineral resources. The event also featured a roadshow on the fifth tranche of critical mineral auctions and the inauguration of AI Hackathon 2025, aimed at using artificial intelligence for mineral targeting.

During the ceremony, the auction process for 13 Exploration Licence blocks was launched, covering critical minerals such as Rare Earth Elements (REE), Zinc, Diamonds, Copper, and Platinum Group Elements (PGE). The government’s transparent online bidding process is designed to enhance private sector participation and introduce advanced technologies to improve mineral exploration efficiency.

Speaking at the event, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy emphasized the importance of this initiative in strengthening India’s mineral self-reliance. He highlighted how, for the first time, systematic early-stage exploration is being facilitated through a structured and transparent process. He noted that this reform would accelerate the discovery of deep-seated minerals, boost investor confidence, and help create a future-ready mineral ecosystem that aligns with India’s clean energy and industrial ambitions.

Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant welcomed the initiative and acknowledged the state’s rich mining legacy. He expressed confidence that these reforms would not only unlock India’s mineral potential but also create new opportunities for sustainable mining, benefiting the economy and local communities.

Secretary of the Ministry of Mines, V.L. Kantha Rao, underscored the pivotal role of AI-driven exploration techniques and private sector involvement in strengthening India’s mineral exploration landscape. He assured that the government is committed to ensuring the timely operationalization of the auctioned blocks to meet the growing demand for critical minerals.

As part of the event, AI Hackathon 2025 was inaugurated to leverage artificial intelligence for mineral targeting. Participants will use geophysical, geochemical, remote sensing, and borehole data to develop AI models that can identify new mineral-rich zones. Experts believe AI-driven analytics will revolutionize India’s exploration ecosystem by identifying concealed and deep-seated deposits, improving both efficiency and accuracy in mineral discovery.

Encouraging private participation, the government also awarded certificates to newly notified Private Exploration Agencies, recognizing their role in strengthening India’s mineral exploration efforts.

Following the auction launch, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy chaired a high-level review meeting in Goa, attended by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Secretary (Mines) V.L. Kantha Rao, and Chief Secretary of Goa Dr. V. Candavelou. The meeting brought together private companies, prospective bidders, public sector undertakings, and environmental experts to discuss strategies for promoting sustainable mining practices, leveraging technology in exploration, and maintaining ecological balance in Goa.

After the discussions, the Union Minister visited the Sanguelim reclaimed mine, reinforcing the government’s commitment to environmentally responsible mining practices.

The launch of India’s first Exploration Licence auction and the integration of AI-driven mineral exploration mark a transformational shift in the country’s mining sector. These initiatives are expected to drive India towards greater mineral self-sufficiency while ensuring the adoption of sustainable and innovative mining practices for the future.