India has started making greater attempts towards ensuring self-reliance in the minerals industry, where the central government is working towards minimizing dependency on imports and increasing production capacity in the country. At a roadshow event on Monday organised by the Ministry of Mines, Union Coal and Mines Minister, G. Kishan Reddy, pointed out that the government is making an effort to utilise mineral resources efficiently and create jobs. 

This effort is made as the government is increasing auctions for the exploration and exploitation of minerals. The authorities reveal that a 212 mineral blocks were auctioned off in fiscal year 2025-2026, making it the highest so far since the auction system was started in 2015.

In case of the critical minerals category, which plays an important role in several industries, such as renewable energy, electronics, and defense, 22 blocks have been auctioned this year itself, thus raising the number of critical minerals blocks up to 71 till date. The government has even announced the seventh round of critical minerals block auctions.

According to Reddy, it is important to note that the focus of the government is not only on generating revenues; it also aims to make the country self-sufficient in minerals. Moreover, he pointed out that there were many future prospects in sectors like urban mining and coal gasification. He also advocated more cooperation between the private sector, public sector units, and states.

This decision is part of a greater plan to secure important minerals that are needed for innovative technologies and the energy transition. As demand for these minerals are growing and countries are competing for them. India is trying to increase its own production of such minerals and reduce dependency on imports.

The government effort shows a stronger focus on building a resilient minerals ecosystem, supported by policy reforms, increased auctions, and industry participation.