Updated on 17 Jun 2026
The Mineral (Other Than Atomic & Hydro-Carbons Energy Minerals) Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2024 have brought in an entire process for Exploration Licenses (EL) awarded through auctions. The amendments provide detailed procedure regarding execution of licenses, license areas surrendered, extending period of licenses, submission of geological report, among other compliance requirements. The regulations also specify exploration license deed forms to be adopted for more effective mineral exploration in India.
The Minerals (Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons Energy Minerals) Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2024, notified under G.S.R. 50(E) on 21 January 2024, have made some important changes in India’s minerals exploration regime. The amendment brings in some new rules regarding Exploration Licence (EL). This will allow granting of Exploration Licences through auction, according to the Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2015. Some procedures are laid down regarding the execution of exploration licence deeds, surrender of exploration area, selection of area, extension of licence period, and geological report filing with the state government and Indian Bureau of Mines. Some important penalties and consequences of not complying with the new rules have been provided. There is provision for forfeiting performance security and disqualification from auctions. Some new schedules containing standard forms of exploration licence deeds and supplementary agreement have been introduced.