Mineral Resource Policy — Policy Reforms

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
MMDR Amendment Act 2015	2015	Introduced auction-based allocation of mineral concessions, replacing the earlier discretionary allocation system. Established District Mineral Foundations, National Mineral Exploration Trust, and strengthened regulatory oversight mechanisms. The amendment also introduced provisions for transfer of mining leases and enhanced penalty structures for violations.	Transformed mineral allocation from discretionary to transparent auction-based system, significantly improving governance and revenue generation. Enhanced local community benefits through DMF and strengthened exploration activities through NMET, leading to more systematic and equitable mineral resource development.
Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act 2015	2015	Ended Coal India Limited's monopoly by allowing commercial coal mining by private companies. Introduced auction mechanisms for coal blocks and removed end-use restrictions, enabling coal trading and market-based allocation. The Act also provided for allocation of coal blocks for specified end uses including power, steel, cement, and other industries.	Revolutionized India's coal sector by introducing competition, improving efficiency, and attracting private investment. Led to significant increase in coal production capacity, reduced import dependence, and enhanced energy security through diversified supply sources and improved mining technologies.