Mining Bill 2025: A Game Changer for Mineral-Rich Chhattisgarh, Says MP Brijmohan Agrawal

Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal, a prominent BJP figure, has labeled the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2025, as a significant step forward for Chhattisgarh and other resource-rich states. According to Agrawal, the bill, introduced during the Lok Sabha’s monsoon session, reflects the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy to strengthen India’s strategic mineral reserves. He emphasized that the bill will modernize the mining sector to compete globally while driving socio-economic growth in areas impacted by mining. The earlier regulations had several issues, such as dependency on imports for vital minerals (lithium, cobalt, rare earths), intricate licensing procedures, and a lack of transparency in regions influenced by mining. The new bill looks to address these issues, with plans for the establishment of the National Critical Minerals Mission (NCMM). This will give India the legal and financial authority to acquire and explore minerals at home and abroad. The bill will also lead to improved transparency and speed in lease allocation and mineral trading via digital platforms like mineral exchanges. Furthermore, it includes provisions to raise royalty rates on specific mineral categories, thereby increasing state revenue. The District Mineral Foundation (DMF) will also be strengthened to increase investment in education, health, and livelihoods.