The Ministry of Mines will launch an offshore mineral auction on October 1, 2026, offering two mineral blocks in the Andaman Sea region under a Composite Licence.
The ministry announced the development in a PIB release issued on September 30, saying the auction is intended to support exploration and development of India’s offshore mineral resources.
Two Mineral Blocks Offered in Andaman Sea
The two blocks will be auctioned under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 and the Offshore Areas Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2024, as amended.
The framework allows offshore mineral blocks to be allocated through a transparent and competitive auction process. The Ministry of Mines received the authority to conduct such auctions following amendments to the OAMDR Act in 2023.
The blocks are being offered for a Composite Licence, with the auction expected to encourage systematic exploration and attract investment into offshore mineral development.
Minerals Linked to Clean Energy and Technology
According to the Ministry of Mines, offshore mineral resources have growing relevance for technological development, the clean energy transition and resilient supply chains.
The ministry identified cobalt, nickel, manganese, copper and rare earth elements as important inputs for electric mobility, renewable energy systems, advanced electronics and strategic industries.
The government said developing domestic offshore resources can support its objectives of resource security, self-reliance and sustainable economic growth.
Government Seeks Private Participation and Technology
The auction is also intended to encourage greater private sector participation and the use of advanced technologies for offshore mineral exploration and development.
The Ministry of Mines said the initiative is part of efforts to expand India’s mineral resource base through systematic exploration and responsible development of offshore resources.
The auction launch on October 1 marks the next step in the government’s efforts to explore offshore mineral resources in the Andaman Sea and support long-term mineral security.
Q1. When will the offshore mineral auction begin?
The Ministry of Mines will launch the auction on October 1, 2026.
Q2. Where are the mineral blocks being auctioned?
The two offshore mineral blocks are located in the Andaman Sea region.
Q3. How many offshore mineral blocks will be auctioned?
Two offshore mineral blocks will be offered for auction.
Q4. What type of licence will be offered for the blocks?
The blocks will be offered for grant of a Composite Licence.
Q5. Which minerals are highlighted by the Ministry of Mines?
The ministry highlighted cobalt, nickel, manganese, copper and rare earth elements as important inputs for electric mobility, renewable energy, advanced electronics and strategic industries.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB)
