Mines & Mineral Opportunities in India
A gateway to one of the fastest-growing mining economies in the world
Unlocking India's Mineral Potential
India's mining sector stands at the threshold of unprecedented growth, driven by economic strength, resource endowment and regulatory reforms. With a GDP of USD 4.27 trillion (5th largest globally) and growth projected at 6.5% in 2025, India is rapidly expanding its industrial base, fueling an urgent need for mineral resources. The country possesses 0.7 million sq. km of Obvious Geological Potential (OGP) area, with 18 mineral commodities identified. Geological data is publicly accessible via https://www.gsi.gov.in.
Strong Legal Framework and Policy Reform
India's regulatory framework has undergone transformative reforms. The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 have been amended in 2023-24 to promote deeper exploration, offshore mining and simplified clearances. The National Mineral Policy, 2019 and National Mineral Exploration Policy, 2016 reinforce this commitment. 100% FDI is permitted under the automatic route, and concessions (ML, CL, EL) are allocated transparently via auction for up to 50 years. The processes are digital, faceless and supported by drone surveys.
Explore, Discover, Develop
Three types of mineral concessions now exist: Mining Lease (ML), Composite Licence (CL) and Exploration Licence (EL). ELs are awarded via reverse auction and can cover up to 1000 sq. km. Notified Exploration Agencies—both government and private—are empowered to conduct reconnaissance to prospecting without requiring a separate PL. Financial support for exploration is available through the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET). Investors can evaluate detailed reports at the G2/G3 stage for Mining or Composite Licenses, or explore opportunities at the Exploration License (EL) stage. Comprehensive datasets are accessible via the Bhukosh GIS portal and the National Geoscience Data Repository, offering a granular understanding of India’s vast mineral potential.
Critical Minerals for a Greener Future
India is proactively addressing global supply chain needs through its NATIONAL CRITICAL MINERAL MISSION. A list of 29 critical and strategic minerals—including lithium, cobalt, REEs, and rock phosphate—has been notified. The launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission underscores India’s strategic focus on securing essential minerals crucial for renewable energy, electronics and defence industries.
Auction-based Transparency
India has embraced a transparent, auction-driven model for mineral allocation, having successfully auctioned over 200 blocks. A full auction summary illustrates the sector’s progress, while ongoing mineral tenders, critical mineral tenders, and offshore opportunities offer live prospects. Investors can track trends via the year-wise and state-wise auction summary and mineral auction performance dashboard.
| e-bidding portal for critical minerals, mining leases, composite licenses, exploration licenses and offshore area mineral blocks: MSTC Portal |
Demand Drivers & Sectoral Initiatives
A series of national infrastructure programs such as Make in India, Smart Cities and e-Mobility are increasing demand for mineral-intensive sectors like steel, aluminium, copper and battery metals. Private participation in exploration is encouraged, and transferability of concessions has been permitted. Captive/non-captive distinction has been removed to enhance operational flexibility. India presents a uniquely attractive proposition for mining investors, combining economic momentum with vast untapped mineral resources. As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, India offers low operating costs, a robust digital economy and a massive domestic market. Despite its size and demand potential, India’s per capita metal consumption remains significantly below global averages—indicating substantial headroom for growth. Steel consumption stands at ~80 kg per capita compared to a global average of ~250 kg; aluminium at ~2.5 kg versus ~12 kg; and copper at ~0.6 kg compared to ~3 kg—underscoring latent industrial demand. The country is rapidly urbanizing, with 40% urbanization projected by 2030, further accelerating mineral-intensive infrastructure needs. Moreover, strong ESG policies and social initiatives like the District Mineral Fund reinforce India’s commitment to responsible mining.
Strategic Outlook & Global Engagement
India is a member of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) and is scaling up its engagement globally. Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) has been formed to secure critical minerals through global partnerships. Investors can engage in joint ventures abroad to build secure, diversified supply chains with strong government backing. The Mining Tenement System and National Geophysical Data Repository provide digitized access to data and block status.
Ready to Invest? Begin Here
India’s mining sector is future-ready. With stable laws, transparent auctions, abundant data and global vision, now is the time to partner with India.
For more details and quick links, please visit-
Ministry of Mines | Auction Dashboard | MSTC Portal
