| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Bill Name | Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025 |
| Parent Act | MMDR Act, 1957 |
| Date of Passage | August 19, 2025 |
| Key Amendments | - National Mineral Exploration Trust renamed to National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust, now supports overseas projects. Royalty contribution increased from 2% to 3%. |
| - Lease flexibility: Mining lease areas can be extended by 10%, composite licences by 30% for deep-seated/critical minerals (e.g., lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earths). | |
| - Captive mining liberalized: Removal of 50% sale cap; surplus minerals can be sold in open market after fulfilling captive needs (with nominal additional payment). | |
| - Mineral exchanges authorized for transparent mineral trade via electronic platforms. | |
| Sustainability Focus | Promotes zero-waste mining, supports National Critical Mineral Mission, and aligns with EVs, defense, and renewable energy sectors. |
| Strategic Goals | - Reduce import dependency for critical minerals. |
| - Boost domestic production and self-sufficiency. | |
| - Attract private investment and foreign collaboration. | |
| - Strengthen India's role in global supply chains. | |
| Critical Minerals Covered | Lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earth elements, etc. |
| Economic Impact | Expected to unlock economic and strategic value by modernizing exploration, improving resource management, and enhancing mineral accessibility. |

