Central government approves Rs 163 billion NCMM

The central government has approved the National Critical Mineral Mission with an expenditure of Rs 163 billion to focus on mineral exploration, mining, beneficiation, processing and recovery from end-of-life products. PSUs and private companies are expected to invest Rs 180 billion in the initiative. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has conducted 368 exploration projects for critical minerals over the past three years, with 195 projects under way in 2024-25. For 2025-26, GSI plans to undertake 227 projects. The Ministry of Mines has auctioned 24 strategic mineral blocks following amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. The mission will also expedite regulatory approvals, provide financial incentives for exploration and establish mineral processing parks.