India to Auction Offshore Mineral Blocks

The Ministry of Mines will begin the auction of two offshore mineral blocks in the Andaman Sea region today, marking a major move to tap India’s marine mineral resources.

The blocks will be offered under a composite licence aimed at promoting exploration and future development. The initiative is expected to attract private investment, encourage advanced exploration technologies and strengthen India’s long-term supply of critical minerals.

The government views offshore mineral resources as increasingly important for clean-energy technologies, industrial growth and building more resilient mineral supply chains.