By TIOL News Service

NEW DELHI, MAR 15, 2025: MINISTRY of Mines, in collaboration with the Government of Goa, organized a landmark event graced by Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, and Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant. This event marked the launch of India's first-ever auction of Exploration Licences (ELs), a significant reform aimed at unlocking the nation's untapped critical and deep-seated mineral resources. The program also featured a Roadshow on the 5th Tranche of Auction of Critical Mineral Blocks and the inauguration of AI Hackathon 2025, focusing on 'Mineral Targeting using AI'.

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister of Goa Dr. Pramod Sawant jointly launched the auction of 13 Exploration Licence blocks, covering critical minerals such as Rare Earth Elements (REE), Zinc, Diamond, Copper, and Platinum Group Elements (PGE). This initiative, facilitated through a transparent online bidding process, is set to accelerate systematic mineral exploration, enhance private sector participation, and reduce import dependency.

Highlighting the significance of this moment, G. Kishan Reddy stated, "For the first time, India is opening up systematic early-stage exploration through a structured and transparent auction process. This reform will accelerate the discovery of critical and deep-seated minerals, boost investor confidence, and pave the way for a self-reliant, future-ready mineral ecosystem aligned with India's clean energy and industrial ambitions."

Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, lauded the Government of India's reformative steps, stating, "Goa has a rich mining legacy, and we are committed to responsible, technology-driven mineral development. These reforms will not only unlock India's mineral potential but also create new opportunities for sustainable mining."

Secretary, Ministry of Mines V.L. Kantha Rao emphasized that this auction marks a pivotal step in India's journey towards mineral self-reliance. The integration of AI-driven exploration techniques and private sector participation will play a crucial role in unlocking the nation's vast mineral resources. The Ministry is committed to ensuring the timely operationalization of these blocks to meet the growing demand for critical minerals.

As part of the event, the Hackathon on "Mineral Targeting using Artificial Intelligence" was inaugurated by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant. The initiative aims to leverage AI-driven techniques and geoscience data to identify new mineral-rich zones, particularly concealed and deep-seated deposits.

Participants will develop AI models utilizing datasets such as geophysics, geochemistry, remote sensing, and borehole data, focusing on critical minerals like REE, Ni-PGE, and Copper. This hackathon is expected to drive innovation in India's exploration ecosystem and strengthen data-driven mineral discovery.

To further encourage private participation in mineral exploration, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant awarded certificates to three newly notified Private Exploration Agencies:

- M/s Earthenviro Lab Private Limited

- M/s Ocean Drilling and Exploration Pvt. Ltd

- M/s Enkay Enviro Services Pvt. Ltd

Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy also chaired a review meeting in Goa, joined by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Secretary (Mines) V.L. Kantha Rao, and Chief Secretary of Goa Dr. V. Candavelou. The meeting was attended by representatives from private companies, prospective bidders, PSUs, GSI, MECL, and environmental experts. Discussions focused on promoting sustainable and responsible mining, leveraging technology for mineral exploration, and ensuring ecological balance in Goa.

Following the event, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Secretary V.L. Kantha Rao visited the Sanguelim reclaimed mine showcasing efforts towards sustainable and responsible mining.

This landmark event signifies India's commitment to modernizing its mining sector, integrating cutting-edge technology, and securing a self-reliant future in critical minerals.