New Delhi, Mar 25 (TNT): Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy on Wednesday called for accelerated exploration of critical minerals, stressing their importance for India’s energy transition, economic growth and technological advancement.
Chairing the 7th Governing Body meeting of the National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust (NMEDT), Reddy directed states to expedite ongoing projects, ensure faster approvals and improve coordination to reduce exploration-to-auction timelines.
He emphasised the need to adopt advanced technologies such as AI/ML, drone-based surveys and modern beneficiation techniques to enhance efficiency and success rates in mineral discovery.
Reddy also highlighted the importance of greater participation from startups, private exploration agencies and innovation-driven institutions to strengthen the exploration ecosystem in line with the Startup India initiative.
Minister of State for Atomic Energy Jitendra Singh stressed the need for strong coordination, monitoring and integration of scientific institutions to ensure timely execution of projects.
The meeting reviewed NMEDT’s performance for FY 2025–26 and key reforms, including the expansion of its mandate following amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.
The trust’s contribution has been increased from 2 per cent to 3 per cent of royalty, and its scope expanded to include offshore exploration and overseas activities.
Under the National Critical Mineral Mission, NMEDT has issued guidelines to fund pilot projects for recovery of critical minerals from industrial waste such as tailings, fly ash and red mud, with support of up to ₹20 crore per project.
A pilot project has also been sanctioned to the Non-Ferrous Materials Technology Development Centre for rare earth mineral separation.
The trust is supporting studies to identify critical minerals through geochemical analysis and is promoting sustainable mining practices aligned with the National Tailings Policy, 2025.
During FY 2025–26, a total of 76 exploration projects have been sanctioned, with 45 blocks auctioned so far, including 10 critical mineral blocks, reflecting increased private sector participation.
The government said these measures aim to strengthen India’s mineral security, promote sustainable development and advance self-reliance in critical minerals.
TNT KS
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