Indian Government Intensifies Efforts for Mineral Self-Reliance to Boost Domestic Capabilities
The Indian government is ramping up its efforts to achieve self-reliance in the minerals sector, aiming to reduce import dependence. Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy emphasized the government's commitment to this goal during a roadshow for the Seventh Tranche Auction of Critical Mineral Blocks. The focus is on strategic reforms and policy measures to enhance domestic exploration, extraction, and processing capabilities. The government is also exploring opportunities in urban mining and coal gasification to meet future demands for critical minerals. In the fiscal year 2025-26, a record 212 mineral blocks were auctioned, surpassing previous years' totals. The government has also made significant progress in critical mineral auctions, with 22 blocks auctioned in the same fiscal year. 
