India, March 19 -- India's mineral sector achieved a record milestone in FY 2025-26 with the successful auction of 200 mineral blocks, the highest ever in a single year, according to the Ministry of Mines.

The auctions spanned a diverse mix of minerals, led by limestone with 76 blocks, followed by iron ore (40 blocks) and bauxite (30 blocks), highlighting strong demand from core industrial sectors. Notably, 22 critical mineral blocks were auctioned, underscoring the government's focus on strengthening long-term resource security.

State participation played a key role, with Gujarat leading with 32 blocks, followed by Rajasthan (30) and Tamil Nadu (22). Other major contributors included Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. ...