Secretary, Ministry of Mines Virtually Launched Auction of Two Offshore Mineral Blocks; Urges Active Industry Participation

The Secretary of the Ministry of Mines virtually launched the auction of two offshore mineral blocks—Sewell Rise-01 and West Sewell Ridge-01—located in the Andaman Sea. Covering over 1,632 square kilometres, these blocks contain polymetallic nodules and crusts hosting critical minerals such as cobalt, nickel, manganese, copper, and rare earth elements. The auction, conducted for the grant of a Composite Licence, is regulated under the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, and the Offshore Areas Mineral (Auction) Rules, 2024. The initiative aims to unlock India's offshore mineral potential, enhance domestic mineral availability, and support advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and electric mobility.