Copper Mining Declared Public Utility for 6 Months
The Ministry of Labour declares copper mining a public utility under the Industrial Disputes Act for 6 months, ensuring service continuity in public interest.
CPCB Seeks Public Input on Draft Guidelines for Silica Sand Mining and Washing Plants
The CPCB has provided the draft guidelines which covering various aspects of environmental management related to silica sand mining and washing operations. These aspects include measures for pollution control, waste management, water conservation, air quality monitoring, and sustainable mining practices.
Barytes, Mica, Quartz & Felspar Declared as Major Minerals
In a major move, the Ministry of Mines has reclassified Barytes, Felspar, Mica, and Quartz as major minerals to boost critical mineral exploration.
Govt Issues New Transition Norms for Barytes & Quartz Leases
The Centre allows regulatory relaxations for Barytes, Felspar, Mica & Quartz leases as they shift from minor to major minerals. Relief till March 2027.
Offshore Mineral Auction Rules Amended to Broaden Eligibility
Previously, the rules addressed situations where an applicant was a subsidiary company. The amendment now explicitly states that “if an applicant is a subsidiary company, the net worth of the holding company of such subsidiary company may also be considered and the holding company may be incorporated in India or outside India.”
Govt Mandates BIS Mark for Refined Zinc from Oct 2025
The Centre mandates BIS certification for refined zinc, effective from October 2025, under a new order by the Ministry of Mines
Tin Ingots to Require BIS Mark from Oct 2025
From October 2025, tin ingots must meet BIS quality norms and bear the Standard Mark, per a new order from the Ministry of Mines.
Iron Ore Mining Industry Gets New Status Extension
Centre extends ‘public utility service’ status for Iron Ore Mining under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, for six more months from April 14, 2025.
CERC Announces Monthly Escalation Rates for Power Procurement Payments in February 2025
The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) has issued a notification detailing the monthly escalation rates applicable for February 2025 for the purpose of payments related to the procurement of power by distribution licensees. These escalation rates are used to adjust the payment amounts in power purchase agreements to account for fluctuations in the costs of key components, such as imported coal and its transportation and handling.
Government Removes Coal Purchase Restriction to Boost Energy
Ministry of Coal has lifted coal supply restriction for power plants, replacing the NCDP with the Shakti Policy, promoting energy security & coal production.
