2 minEconomic Concept
Economic Concept

National Mineral Policy 2019

What is National Mineral Policy 2019?

The National Mineral Policy (NMP) 2019 is a comprehensive policy framework by the Government of India that aims to ensure sustainable development of the mining sector, enhance exploration, attract private investment, and promote scientific mining while addressing environmental and social concerns. It replaced the National Mineral Policy 2008.

Historical Background

India's mineral sector has been governed by various policies since independence, with the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act 1957 being the primary legislation. The NMP 2008 aimed at transparency and sustainability. The NMP 2019 was formulated to address challenges like illegal mining, lack of advanced exploration, and to align with global best practices and the country's economic growth aspirations.

Key Points

11 points
  • 1.

    Emphasizes "Make in India" initiative by reducing imports of minerals.

  • 2.

    Promotes auction-based allocation of mineral concessions for transparency.

  • 3.

    Encourages private sector participation in exploration and mining, including for critical minerals.

  • 4.

    Focuses on sustainable mining practices, including scientific mining, reclamation, and rehabilitation.

  • 5.

    Aims to streamline the environmental clearance process while ensuring environmental protection.

  • 6.

    Proposes a long-term import policy for mineral resources.

  • 7.

    Stresses the need for a National Mineral Data Repository.

  • 8.

    Advocates for the use of coastal waterways and inland shipping for mineral transport.

  • 9.

    Mandates the establishment of a District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for welfare of mining-affected people.

  • 10.

    Seeks to improve ease of doing business in the mining sector.

  • 11.

    Encourages deep-seated and concealed mineral exploration using advanced technology.

Recent Developments

5 developments
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The policy's encouragement of critical mineral mining is a key factor in the debate over defining the Aravali range.

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The proposed definition of Aravalis aims to "balance" ecological concerns with the NMP 2019.

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Government's push for critical mineral exploration to reduce import dependency and support energy transition.

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Ongoing efforts to implement the policy's provisions, including streamlining clearances and promoting sustainable practices.

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Debates around the environmental impact of increased mining activity, especially in ecologically sensitive areas.

This Concept in News

1 topics

Critical Minerals: India's Strategic Shift and Policy Implementation

27 Feb 2026

The news about India's focus on critical minerals and the launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) highlights the importance of the National Mineral Policy 2019 in guiding the development of the mineral sector. This news demonstrates how the policy's objectives are being translated into concrete actions to address specific challenges, such as securing the supply of critical minerals. The NCMM's budgetary outlay and focus on implementation reflect the policy's emphasis on attracting investment and promoting domestic production. The news also reveals the growing importance of international partnerships in accessing advanced mineral processing technologies and securing access to critical minerals. Understanding the National Mineral Policy 2019 is crucial for analyzing the context and implications of these developments and for answering questions about India's mineral strategy in the UPSC exam. The news underscores the policy's adaptability to evolving geopolitical and technological landscapes.

Source Topic

Critical Minerals: India's Strategic Shift and Policy Implementation

Economy

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 3 (Economy - Mineral Resources, Industrial Policy, Sustainable Development) and GS Paper 3 (Environment & Ecology - Environmental Impact Assessment, Conservation). Questions can be asked on its objectives, key features, and its implications for economic development and environmental protection in Prelims and Mains.

This Concept in News

1 news topics

1

Critical Minerals: India's Strategic Shift and Policy Implementation

27 February 2026

The news about India's focus on critical minerals and the launch of the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) highlights the importance of the National Mineral Policy 2019 in guiding the development of the mineral sector. This news demonstrates how the policy's objectives are being translated into concrete actions to address specific challenges, such as securing the supply of critical minerals. The NCMM's budgetary outlay and focus on implementation reflect the policy's emphasis on attracting investment and promoting domestic production. The news also reveals the growing importance of international partnerships in accessing advanced mineral processing technologies and securing access to critical minerals. Understanding the National Mineral Policy 2019 is crucial for analyzing the context and implications of these developments and for answering questions about India's mineral strategy in the UPSC exam. The news underscores the policy's adaptability to evolving geopolitical and technological landscapes.