Ministry of Mines Amends Mineral Concession Rules, 2016

The Ministry of Mines, Government of India, has introduced significant amendments to the Minerals (Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals) Concession Rules, 2016, through a notification dated July 21, 2025. These changes aim to streamline regulations, enhance transparency, and align the mining sector with evolving industry needs. Here’s a detailed overview of the amendments and their implications.

Key Highlights of the Amendments

1. Short Title and Commencement 

The amended rules are titled the Minerals (Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals) Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2025. They came into effect on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette, ensuring immediate applicability.

2. Changes in Rule 44 

Clause (ia) of Rule 44 has been omitted, simplifying the regulatory framework.

3. Updates to Rule 45 

Expansion of Scope: The list of minerals now includes Zirconium and Caesium, alongside Titanium. This reflects the growing importance of these minerals in industrial applications.
Addition of Sponge Metals: Zirconium sponge and Caesium metal have been added to the list, alongside Titanium sponge metal.
Rubidium Pricing: A new sub-rule (11) has been introduced, mandating the Indian Bureau of Mines to publish the average sale price of Rubidium in Indian Rupees. This price will be calculated using data from reputed publications like the United States Geological Survey, adjusted with the Reserve Bank of India’s reference rate and a conversion factor of 1.35.

4. Revisions to Rule 67

Terminology Update: The term “Atomic Minerals Division” has been replaced with “Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research,” ensuring consistency with current nomenclature.
Authority Shift: The Central Government now holds the authority to act under the second proviso to sub-section (1) of section 4, replacing the State Government.
Notification Revocation: The Central Government can revoke notifications issued under sub-rule (1) before the stated expiry period.

5. Modifications to Rule 68 

The reference to “Part C” has been omitted, simplifying the rule.
The Central Government replaces the State Government in the first proviso, centralizing decision-making authority.

Implications of the Amendments

These amendments reflect the government’s commitment to modernizing the mining sector. By including new minerals like Zirconium, Caesium, and Rubidium, the rules acknowledge their growing industrial significance, particularly in high-tech applications. The shift in authority from State to Central Government in certain provisions ensures uniformity and reduces bureaucratic hurdles.

The introduction of a standardized pricing mechanism for Rubidium enhances transparency and provides clarity to stakeholders. Additionally, the updates to terminology and revocation provisions demonstrate the government’s focus on precision and adaptability.

Conclusion

The Minerals (Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals) Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2025 mark a progressive step in India’s mining regulations. These changes are expected to foster growth, attract investments, and ensure sustainable development in the sector. As the mining industry evolves, such amendments will play a crucial role in shaping its future.

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Source: Ministry of Mines

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