Union Minister of Coal & Mines, G Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant jointly-launched the auction of 13 Exploration License (EL) blocks.
This initiative aims to unlock India’s critical mineral potential, including Rare Earth Elements (REE), Zinc, Diamond, Copper, and Platinum Group Elements (PGE).
The auction, facilitated through a transparent online bidding process, marks a significant step towards mineral self-reliance and reducing import dependency.
Secretary (Mines) V.L. Kantha Rao, and Chief Secretary of Goa Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS were also present.
The Hackathon on “Mineral Targeting using Artificial Intelligence,” was also unveiled. The initiative aims to integrate AI-driven techniques with geoscience data to identify new mineral-rich zones, particularly concealed and deep-seated deposits.
Three newly-recognised Notified Private Exploration Agencies (NPEAs) were handed their certificates. M/s Eartnenviro Lab Private Limited, M/s Ocean Drilling and Exploration Pvt. Ltd, and M/s Enkay Enviro Services Pvt. Ltd, are the new NPEAs.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to the Union Ministry of Mines for organising these landmark initiatives in Goa and warmly welcome all stakeholders from the mining sector to our state…the launch of the Critical Minerals Mission is a significant step towards boosting India’s mineral sector. I am confident that these initiatives will greatly benefit Goa’s mining landscape,” stated Dr Pramod Sawant.
“The Government of Goa remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering startups and new ventures in the mining sector, thereby contributing to the state’s economic growth and sustainable development,” asserted the Chief Minister.
Union Minister of Coal & Mines G Kishan Reddy also chaired a review meeting, along with Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant. The meeting was attended by representatives from private companies, prospective bidders, PSUs, GSI, MECL & environmental experts.
The following discussion & deliberation took place at the meeting:
• Auction plan for the potential mining blocks available in the state, Auction plan for Revival of Non-Operational Mines, Expired Leases, Lapsed leases u/s 10A2 of the MMDR Act, in the state.
• Status of Operationalization of Auctioned Mining Blocks, Status of Ongoing Exploration projects, Exploration projects by agencies like GSI/MECL/State Exploration Agencies/NPEAs etc.
Highlighting the significance of mining for Goa, Dr Sawant stated that the revival of mining operations in the state is contributing to strengthening of the economy of the state with enhancing contribution to GSDP in the state.”
