Revitalizing India's Mineral Sector: A New Era with the Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill

The Indian Parliament has passed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025, introducing significant changes to the nation's mineral landscape. The legislation is designed to liberalize, modernize, and inject dynamism into India's mineral sector, with a specific focus on strategic and critical minerals.

The bill, amending the original act from 1957, secured passage in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha with discussions engaging 19 members who provided constructive feedback. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy emphasized the Modi-led government's commitment to coal and mine sector reforms over the past decade during the debate.

With India's reliance on imported critical minerals and expected future demand increases, this bill shifts attention to bolstering domestic production while exploring international opportunities. Key modifications include rebranding the National Mineral Exploration Trust, enhancing its mandate to fund exploration and development initiatives globally, ensuring transparency, sustainability, and community involvement in mining areas.

(With inputs from agencies.)