PANAJI: Goa’s Directorate of Mines and Geology has begun identifying new iron ore blocks for the fifth round of mineral block auctions, with the government aiming to complete the tender process before the Model Code of Conduct for the 2027 Assembly elections comes into force.
The DMG is currently assessing the iron ore reserves in mining leases where geological investigations have been completed. The assessment will help determine which blocks have sufficient resources to be included in the next auction.
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) is assisting the state in preparing detailed geological reports for the identified areas.
Goa has so far auctioned 18 iron ore blocks across four rounds. Mining has commenced at six of these blocks, while other successful bidders are in the process of obtaining the required clearances.
However, the fifth round will have to factor in the 20 million tonne annual mining cap imposed by the Supreme Court. The 18 blocks already auctioned have an aggregate environmental clearance capacity of around 18.5 million tonnes.
With the 2027 elections approaching, the proposed auction is expected to be closely watched by the mining industry as the government seeks to expand mining while remaining within the Supreme Court’s production limit and environmental regulations.
