Government offers 20 critical mineral blocks in eighth auction tranche

The Centre launched the eighth tranche of auctions for 20 critical and strategic mineral blocks in India on 15 July 2026. The blocks are spread across nine states: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana and West Bengal.

Critical minerals in India

Critical minerals are minerals that are essential for sectors such as clean energy, electric mobility, defence and advanced manufacturing. The current tranche includes rare earth elements, lithium, graphite, tungsten and vanadium, which are used in batteries, magnets, alloys and industrial applications.

Auction structure and block details

The eighth tranche includes 13 newly identified mineral blocks and seven blocks re-offered from earlier auctions. The sale of tender documents began on 15 July 2026 and closes on 14 September 2026, while technical bids are due by 21 September 2026. The Ministry of Mines has auctioned 56 of the 88 critical mineral blocks offered so far. This gives a success rate of more than 63 per cent in the auction of critical mineral blocks.

Mineral auction framework

The Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2026 were amended to streamline the auction process, improve ease of doing business and support faster operationalisation of mines. The auction framework in India is used for allocation of mineral blocks through competitive bidding under the mining law regime.

Important Facts for Exams

• Rare earth elements are a group of 17 chemically similar elements used in electronics, magnets and defence equipment.
• Lithium is a key input for rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
• Graphite is used in battery anodes, refractories and lubricants.
• Vanadium is used in steel alloys and energy storage technologies.

Related policy and industry developments

The government has also outlined plans for a coal exchange for transparent, market-based trading of coal and processed coal products. India Mining Week 2026 is scheduled from 15 to 17 November 2026 in New Delhi.