Government Halts Auction of Key Mineral Blocks Amid Low Bidders

The government has canceled the auction of three crucial mineral blocks, including a major lithium mine in Jammu and Kashmir, due to insufficient bidders. This move is part of a broader effort to promote cleaner energy alternatives and achieve self-sufficiency in critical mineral supplies.

The government has scrapped the auction of three essential mineral blocks, including a lithium mine in Jammu and Kashmir, due to a shortage of bidders.

The auction falls under the government's initiative to promote cleaner energy and self-reliance in mineral supplies. The specific blocks include Salal-Haimna Lithium, Titanium and Bauxite Block in Jammu and Kashmir, Muskaniya-Gareriatola-Barwari Potash block in Jharkhand, and Kurunjakulam Graphite block in Tamil Nadu. According to a notice from the Mines Ministry, the required number of bids were not received.

On March 14, the ministry put seven critical mineral blocks up for auction. These blocks are located across Bihar, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir. Last month, the government canceled the auction of 14 similar blocks in the second tranche. In its first tranche, the Centre canceled 13 of 20 blocks due to low response. The fourth round of auctions is now underway, offering 21 mines across various states.