The Ministry of Mines is organizing a landmark roadshow in Kochi on Saturday, showcasing India’s inaugural e-auction of Offshore Areas Mineral Blocks. This initiative seeks to harness the mineral wealth within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), offering significant economic and developmental opportunities.
The event will be chaired by Mr. V.L. Kantha Rao (1992-batch Madhya Pradesh cadre IAS officer), Secretary, Ministry of Mines, with Mr. A.P.M. Mohammed Hanish (1996-batch IAS officer), Principal Secretary, Industries Department, Government of Kerala, and other dignitaries in attendance. Representatives from leading mining, cement, and infrastructure companies are expected to participate.
Key presentations will be delivered by:
- SBICAPS, detailing the auction framework and tender guidelines.
- MSTC, demonstrating its transparent and efficient e-auction platform.
- Geological Survey of India (GSI), highlighting resource potential, especially the three mineral-rich blocks off Kerala’s coast.
This roadshow follows the launch of India’s first tranche of offshore mineral block e-auctions by Union Minister Mr. G. Kishan Reddy on November 28, 2024. Thirteen blocks are up for bidding:
- 3 blocks off Kerala’s coast
- 3 blocks off Gujarat
- 7 blocks in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands
These auctions are part of reforms under the amended Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, aimed at fostering private sector participation in exploring resources like polymetallic nodules, lime-mud, and construction sand.
Industry leaders, investors, and stakeholders are invited to attend the roadshow and explore these opportunities. Detailed auction information is available on the MSTC platform.
