New Delhi: Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited (CMPDIL) has signed an Agreement for Deed Execution of Exploration Licence with the Department of Mines and Geology (DMG), Rajasthan, for the exploration of Rare Earth Elements (REE) in the Nawatala–Devigarh block.
The agreement marks another important step in CMPDIL’s efforts to explore critical mineral resources in India and strengthen the country’s domestic resource base. According to CMPDIL, the agreement is also significant as it is the first of its kind signed in India under the new exploration licence regime.
CMPDIL Granted Exploration Licence in September 2025
CMPDIL was granted the exploration licence for the Nawatala–Devigarh block in September 2025. The latest agreement with the Department of Mines and Geology, Rajasthan, represents further progress towards carrying out exploration activities for Rare Earth Elements in the block.
The development comes at a time when India is focusing on expanding domestic exploration and ensuring the availability of critical minerals that are essential for several modern industries and advanced technologies.
The agreement is expected to support systematic exploration of the mineral potential of the Nawatala–Devigarh area.
Agreement Signed by CMPDIL and Rajasthan DMG Officials
The Agreement for Deed Execution of Exploration Licence was signed by senior representatives of both organisations.
The agreement was signed by:
- M.P. Meena, Director, Department of Mines and Geology (DMG), Rajasthan, on behalf of the Governor of Rajasthan.
- Vikrant Gupta, HoD (BD), CMPDIL, as the authorised signatory representing CMPDIL.
The signing of the agreement formalises another key stage in the exploration process and reinforces cooperation between CMPDIL and the Rajasthan Department of Mines and Geology.
Nawatala–Devigarh Block to be Explored for Rare Earth Elements
The Nawatala–Devigarh block is among the areas being explored for Rare Earth Elements, which comprise a group of minerals that are increasingly important for modern industries and emerging technologies.
Rare Earth Elements have applications across several key sectors, including:
- Electronics
- Renewable energy
- Electric mobility
- Advanced technologies
- Other high-technology industries
Growing demand for these minerals has increased the importance of identifying and developing domestic resources.
Agreement Significant for India’s Critical Mineral Exploration
The signing of the exploration licence agreement is significant in the context of India’s efforts to strengthen its domestic supply of critical minerals.
Critical minerals are important for a range of strategic and industrial applications. Expanding exploration activities can help the country better understand its mineral potential and reduce dependence on external sources over the long term.
CMPDIL’s exploration initiative in the Nawatala–Devigarh block is therefore part of the broader effort to identify and develop India’s domestic resources of critical minerals and Rare Earth Elements.
CMPDIL Focuses on Systematic Mineral Exploration
The agreement underlines CMPDIL’s focus on systematic mineral exploration and its role in supporting India’s efforts to build a stronger domestic resource base for critical minerals.
As exploration activities progress in the Nawatala–Devigarh block, the findings could provide valuable information about the availability and potential of Rare Earth Elements in the region.
The exploration programme may also contribute to India’s broader efforts to secure critical mineral resources required for future industries, clean energy technologies, electric mobility and other advanced applications.
Exploration Could Strengthen India’s Rare Earth Resource Base
The exploration of the Nawatala–Devigarh block is expected to contribute to a better understanding of India’s Rare Earth Element potential.
The development is important as India continues to focus on:
- Expanding domestic mineral exploration.
- Identifying new sources of critical minerals.
- Strengthening the domestic resource base.
- Supporting industries dependent on critical minerals.
- Promoting the availability of minerals required for advanced technologies.
The signing of the agreement represents a significant milestone in CMPDIL’s ongoing efforts to explore critical mineral resources and support India’s long-term resource security.
About CMPDIL
Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Limited (CMPDI) is a subsidiary of Coal India Limited and a leading consultancy organization in the coal and mining sector. The company provides services related to mine planning, exploration, engineering design, environmental management, and consultancy for coal and mineral projects in India. CMPDI plays a key role in supporting the development and modernization of the
