Centre to Review National Mineral Policy 2019 to Focus on Critical Minerals and Deep-Sea Resources

The Centre has initiated a comprehensive review of the National Mineral Policy, 2019, to better align the regulatory framework with current sector demands, according to industry sources. The Mines Ministry has decided to constitute a panel to evaluate the policy in light of recent developments and emerging industry requirements.

The newly formed nine-member committee will be chaired by the Additional Secretary in the Mines Ministry. The panel has been tasked with identifying provisions of the 2019 policy that require modification and recommending a comprehensive revision. The committee is required to submit its final recommendations within two months of its constitution.

The National Mineral Policy, 2019, was originally approved by the Union Cabinet under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It was designed to ensure effective regulation and sustainable development of the mining sector while addressing the concerns of project-affected persons, particularly in tribal areas. The framework aimed to bring greater transparency, better enforcement, balanced socio-economic growth, and sustainable mining practices while encouraging exploration, attracting private investment, and promoting ease of doing business.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that significant shifts have occurred in the global and domestic mineral landscapes over the last few years.

B K Bhatia, a mining industry expert and former Director General of the Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI), stated that revising the policy has become imperative due to changes in the sector, the emerging strategic importance of critical minerals, and the Mines Ministry's ongoing initiatives to review the MMDR Act, 1957. According to Bhatia, the updated policy should establish a forward-looking framework to unlock India's mineral potential, attract advanced technologies, strengthen mineral security, and enhance the sector's contribution to the national economy.

Pankaj Satija, Co-Chair of the FICCI Mining Committee, echoed these views, pointing out that mining jurisdictions globally have continually revised their policies to prioritize national supply-chain resilience, domestic value addition, and sustainable development. Satija noted that India has advanced through progressive initiatives, including amendments to mining laws and the introduction of the National Critical Mineral Mission, making a fresh look at the mineral policy both timely and necessary.

"The decision by the Ministry of Mines to review the National Mineral Policy, 2019, reflects the changing global economic landscape where critical minerals and supply-chain resilience have become paramount. For businesses, startups, and investors operating in the mining, deep-sea exploration, and recycling sectors, this policy evolution presents a crucial opportunity. A modern regulatory framework focused on transparency, private investment, and advanced technologies will help unlock India's vast mineral potential and foster long-term industrial growth." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes