CM highlights Goa’s rich mining legacy
Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister of Goa Dr Pramod Sawant have 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, Ministry of Mines said on 13 Mar following the launch.
Highlighting the significance of this moment, Reddy said, “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 https://sbi.com.in/.”
Dr Sawant added, “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 https://www.nseindia.com/.”
Ministry of Mines Secretary 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 https://www.bseindia.com/.
As part of the event, the Hackathon on “Mineral Targeting using Artificial Intelligence” was inaugurated by Reddy and Dr 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, Minister Reddy and Dr Sawant awarded certificates to three newly notified Private Exploration Agencies https://indianpsu.com/:
Earthenviro Lab Private Limited;
Ocean Drilling and Exploration Pvt Ltd;
Enkay Enviro Services Pvt Ltd. Fiinews.com
