The Eighth Tranche of Critical and Strategic Mineral Blocks, consisting of 20 locations in nine States, will be up for auction on July 15, 2026. These blocks include minerals like Molybdenum, Graphite, Rare Earth Elements, and others crucial for various sectors such as clean energy and defense. The auction will be inaugurated by G Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Coal and Mines, along with other officials.
After successfully auctioning 56 out of 88 critical mineral blocks in seven tranches, the Ministry of Mines has achieved a success rate of over 63%. The government’s transparent and competitive auction framework has garnered a positive industry response, indicating growing investor confidence. India aims to secure critical mineral resources for economic growth and technological advancement.
In the fiscal year 2025–26, the mineral sector reached a significant milestone by auctioning 212 mineral blocks, the highest in any financial year. Among these were 22 critical and strategic mineral blocks, showcasing the government’s dedication to securing essential mineral resources. Recent amendments to the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2026, aim to streamline the auction process and enhance ease of doing business.
