Ministry of Mines to Launch Second Tranche of Exploration Licence Auctions

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Mines will launch the 2nd Tranche of Auction of Exploration Licence (EL) Blocks on February 12, 2026, in New Delhi. The launch event will include the unveiling of the Next Generation Digital Portal of the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and a comprehensive roadshow program. The event follows the successful launch of the first tranche on March 13, 2025. **Key Points / Main Content** * **2nd Tranche Launch:** * The Ministry of Mines will launch the 2nd Tranche of Auction of Exploration Licence (EL) Blocks on February 12, 2026, at the Civil Services Officers' Institute (CSOI), New Delhi. * The aim is to strengthen mineral exploration and ensure long-term mineral security. * **Attendees:** * The launch event will be attended by the Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, senior officials from the Ministry of Mines, representatives from State Governments, industry representatives, and other stakeholders. * **Next Generation Digital Portal (GSI):** * The Ministry will unveil the Next Generation Digital Portal of the Geological Survey of India (GSI). * The portal is a cloud-enabled platform for data acquisition, analysis, visualization, and dissemination, equipped with AI/ML-based tools. * It will interoperate with the National Geoscience Data Repository (NGDR). * The portal is expected to enhance transparency, efficiency, and data-driven decision-making. * **Roadshow Program:** * A comprehensive roadshow program is planned for stakeholders. * The program will include presentations on the Exploration Licence framework, the auction methodology, and the incentives available to explorers. * Presentations will cover the e-auction process through the MSTC portal, auction rules, and the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) scheme. * An open house session will be organized to address queries and suggestions from stakeholders. * **Context:** * The 2nd Tranche builds upon the successful rollout of the first tranche. * The 1st Tranche, comprising 13 Exploration Licence blocks, was jointly launched on 13 March 2025 in Goa. **Impact Analysis** **Stakeholders:** Ministry of Mines * **Impact:** Responsible for organizing and executing the launch of the 2nd Tranche of Auction of Exploration Licence (EL) Blocks and unveiling the Next Generation Digital Portal of the GSI. * **Action Required:** Oversee the planning and execution of the launch event and roadshow program. **Stakeholders:** State Governments * **Impact:** Involved in mineral exploration activities within their respective states. * **Action Required:** Send representatives to the launch event, participate in the roadshow program, and understand the new auction methodology and available incentives. **Stakeholders:** Industry Representatives * **Impact:** Potential participants in the Exploration Licence auctions. * **Action Required:** Attend the launch event and roadshow program, familiarize themselves with the new auction methodology, the Exploration Licence framework, and available incentives, and prepare for the e-auction process. **Stakeholders:** Explorers * **Impact:** Will have access to the Exploration Licence framework, auction methodology and the incentives. * **Action Required:** Review Exploration Licence framework, auction methodology and the incentives and understand the e-auction process.

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