Updated on 12 Jun 2026
The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2021 introduced significant reforms in India’s mining sector by enabling transfer of statutory clearances, allowing captive mines to sell minerals, simplifying auction procedures, and strengthening mineral concession regulations under the MMDR Act, 1957.
The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Act, 2021 has made extensive modifications to streamline processes, increase transparency, and encourage investments in India’s mining industry through the MMDR Act, 1957. Some of the key amendments included using uniform terms instead of multiple terminologies while referring to the granting of mineral concessions, providing for smooth transfer of statutory clearances, licenses, and environmental clearances from successful bidders after the expiry or cancellation of mining leases. Additionally, the amendment has permitted the captive mine lessee to sell up to fifty percent of the annual mineral output after catering to their own needs. Other major amendments have been made in connection with the conduct of auctions, extension of mining lease periods for Government companies, reservation of land for Government concerns, transfer of mining rights, and the powers of the Central Government to act in cases where the States fail to conduct auctions within stipulated deadlines. The DMF and NMET have been provided additional responsibilities under the amendment, and fresh payment schedules for mineral production and captive sales have been introduced.