The e-auction process for 12 blocks of major minerals including lead, zinc, iron ore, limestone, fluorite, and copper has been initiated in Rajasthan. Principal Secretary, Mines, Geology and Petroleum, T. Ravikant informed that out of these 12 blocks, one iron ore block and three limestone blocks are being auctioned for mining lease, while the remaining eight blocks are being auctioned for composite licenses through the central government’s MSTC portal.
Rajasthan topped the country last financial year by auctioning 34 major mineral blocks — the highest in India — and the state is once again targeting the highest number of major mineral auctions this year as well.
Ravikant stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, Rajasthan has secured the top position in major mineral block auctions across the country. In the first quarter of the current financial year alone, eight major mineral blocks have already been successfully auctioned. One block was auctioned on 2 July, and the process for other blocks is ongoing. The Chief Minister has consistently emphasized making Rajasthan a leading state in the mining sector through regular review meetings. In line with this vision, the state government is focusing on a new mineral policy, an M-sand policy, simplifying procedures, and prioritizing mineral exploration, mining, and block auctions.Ravikant further informed that the limestone blocks of Khabia, Khabia East, and Parewar in Jaisalmer, and the iron ore block of Bagawas in Kotputli-Behror are being auctioned for mining lease. Composite licenses are being auctioned for fluorite in Chatwara (Jalore), copper-lead-zinc in West Samodi (Bhilwara), manganese in Gadariya (Banswara), lead-zinc in Chauth ka Barwara (Sawai Madhopur), copper-associated gold in Shahpura (Beawar), copper in Kurtiyan (Beawar), minerals in Kajlodiya Sultangarh (Bhilwara), and emerald in Mojawaton ka Guda (Rajsamand).
Mines Director Deepak Tanwar informed that the tender notice for the e-auction of these 12 major mineral blocks through the Government of India’s MSTC e-portal was issued on 25 June. Tender documents can be obtained until 10 July, and the last date for bid submission is 30 July.
Tanwar added that all essential details regarding these 12 major mineral blocks and the auction process are available on the department’s official website and the Government of India’s MSTC e-portal.
