The Ministry of Mines announced significant policy changes in 2025 to modernize India’s mining industry and enhance mineral security. Key initiatives included the MMDR Amendment Act, 2025, and the transformation of the National Mineral Exploration Trust into the National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust. These reforms aimed to promote transparency, streamline auction processes, and accelerate mineral production.
The reforms also involved the notification of royalty rates for critical minerals, the promotion of mineral exchanges, and the implementation of offshore mining reforms. These efforts were part of a broader strategy to support sustainable development and position the mining sector as a crucial element in achieving the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
In 2025, there was a notable increase in mineral resource development in India, with 141 mineral blocks successfully auctioned by December 5. This marked the highest number of blocks auctioned in a single year since the auction regime began in 2015. States like Assam and Uttarakhand participated in mineral block auctions for the first time, contributing to the industry’s growth.
The introduction of a Mining Dashboard in April 2025 allowed for real-time tracking of auctioned mineral blocks and associated clearances. This tool facilitated the operationalization of mineral blocks by monitoring key milestones and enhancing transparency. Additionally, the approval of the National Critical Mineral Mission aimed to secure a sustainable supply of critical minerals and strengthen India’s mineral value chains.
The Union Cabinet’s approval of the National Critical Mineral Mission in January, 2025, with a significant financial outlay, marked a crucial step towards ensuring a stable supply of critical minerals. This initiative, along with partnerships with other countries and organizations, aimed to reduce dependency on specific mineral sources and enhance India’s mineral security.
Public sector companies like National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO) and Hindustan Copper demonstrated strong performance in 2025. NALCO reported substantial profits and revenue, maintaining its position as a leading producer in bauxite and alumina. Hindustan Copper also saw a significant increase in profit before tax, reflecting a positive trend in the sector’s performance.
