India to overhaul 2019 mineral policy, targeting critical minerals and deep-sea mining
The Mines Ministry will set up a nine-member panel to review the 2019 National Mineral Policy, focusing on critical minerals, recycling and deep-sea resources, with recommendations due within two months.
The Centre has ordered a review of the National Mineral Policy, 2019, appointing a nine-member committee led by the Additional Secretary of the Mines Ministry. The group is charged with examining sector developments since the policy’s inception, pinpointing provisions that require amendment, and drafting a full revision, with a two-month deadline for its report. Priorities highlighted include critical minerals, recycling initiatives and the exploitation of deep-sea resources, reflecting newer strategic objectives.
The original policy, approved by the Union Cabinet under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aimed to improve regulation, transparency and sustainable mining while addressing tribal community concerns. Experts such as former FIMI director B K Bhatia and FICCI Mining Committee co-chair Pankaj Satija argue that a refreshed policy is essential to unlock India’s mineral potential, draw advanced technologies and bolster national mineral security.
Why it matters
Updating the policy could shape India's mineral supply chain, investment climate and environmental stewardship.
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