State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) 2025

On 16th October 2025, the Ministry of Mines released the State Mining Readiness Index (SMRI) and corresponding State rankings, marking a major step towards promoting mining sector reforms at the State level.

Key Points

Objective of the Index: The SMRI aims to evaluate and benchmark the performance of States in the mining sector. It measures their readiness, efficiency, and reform implementation capacity, helping drive competitiveness and transparency in non-coal mineral mining.
Evaluation Parameters:
States were assessed on multiple parameters, including:
- Auction Performance – Efficiency in conducting mineral block auctions.
- Early Mine Operationalisation – Speed in making auctioned mines operational.
- Exploration Focus – Initiatives and investments in mineral exploration.
- Sustainable Mining Practices – Adoption of environmentally responsible mining methods.
Categorisation of States: Under the SMRI framework, States were divided into three categories based on their mineral endowment:
- Category A (Mineral-Rich States): Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat secured the top three positions.
- Category B: Goa, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam emerged as top performers.
- Category C: Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Tripura claimed the leading ranks.
Purpose and Impact: According to the Ministry, the index will act as a benchmarking tool to measure State performance and promote healthy competition.