Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2017 lays down the timelines for implementation of the exploration plan. It is prepared with the approval of IBM (Indian Bureau of Mines) for satisfying the requirements.
As per the rules enlisted in the documents, these rules shall apply to all minerals, except - petroleum and natural gas; coal, lignite and sand for stowing; and minor minerals.
Provided that the State Government may by notification extend the application of any of the provisions of these rules to minor minerals:-
The powers and responsibilities to be exercised by the Central Government or the Indian Bureau of Mines in respect of minerals other than minor minerals shall be exercisable by the State Government or State Directorate of Mining and Geology or any other authority subordinate to the State Government as may be notified by the State Government while extending the application of these rules to minor minerals.
The auction process needs to be initiated well in advance to ensure a seamless transition from the existing to the new lessees as the new auctioned leases and that the mineral production is not affected due to expiry of these leases. Exploration of the blocks was required to be done for the auction process of these mineral blocks.
