Mines ministry to auction two offshore mineral blocks in Andaman Sea
By Staff Report 1 October 1, 2026 4:02 pm IST
The Ministry of Mines will launch an auction of two offshore mineral blocks in the Andaman Sea for grant of Composite Licences.
The Ministry of Mines, Government of India, will launch the auction of offshore mineral blocks on October 1, marking a step towards unlocking India’s offshore mineral potential and strengthening long-term mineral resource security.
The auction will comprise two offshore mineral blocks in the Andaman Sea region, which will be offered for the grant of Composite Licences. The ministry said the auction is expected to encourage systematic exploration, attract investment and promote the adoption of advanced technologies for offshore mineral exploration and development.
Offshore mineral resources are considered important in the context of technological advancement, the clean energy transition and resilient supply chains. Minerals including cobalt, nickel, manganese, copper and rare earth elements are important inputs for electric mobility, renewable energy systems, advanced electronics and strategic industries.
The ministry said the development of domestic offshore mineral resources can contribute to India’s objectives of self-reliance, resource security and sustainable economic growth.
The auction is being conducted under the provisions of the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 and the Offshore Areas Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2024, as amended from time to time. Amendments to the OAMDR Act in 2023 empowered the Ministry of Mines to auction offshore mineral blocks, enabling their transparent and competitive allocation.
The initiative is also expected to facilitate greater private sector participation and technological innovation in offshore mineral exploration and development. The ministry said it reflects the government’s commitment to expanding India’s mineral resource base through systematic exploration and responsible development of offshore resources.
The launch of the auction is intended to support the development of India’s offshore mineral resources and strengthen mineral security for emerging technologies, industrial development and long-term requirements.
Source: PIB
