Govt to auction 19 critical mineral blocks in seventh tranche as focus sharpens on supply security

The government will launch the seventh tranche of auctions for critical and strategic minerals on Monday, putting 19 blocks on offer across multiple states as part of efforts to strengthen domestic resource security.The move comes as India seeks to boost self-reliance in clean energy, advanced technologies, fertilisers and other strategic sectors amid global supply-chain disruptions, PTI reported.So far, six rounds of auctions have been completed, with 46 critical and strategic mineral blocks already sold, according to the mines ministry.“Building on this momentum, the seventh tranche will offer 19 blocks across several states under mining lease and composite licence,” the ministry said in a statement.Critical minerals are considered vital for economic development and long-term mineral security, particularly as the global transition towards clean energy and advanced technologies drives demand for resources such as lithium, graphite, rare earth elements (REE), tungsten, vanadium, titanium and other rare metals.Their limited availability and geographical concentration continue to pose challenges for resilient supply chains worldwide.The ministry said Union coal and mines minister G Kishan Reddy, along with minister of state for coal and mines Satish Chandra Dubey, will formally launch the seventh tranche of auctions on March 23.In a separate statement, the ministry said it will also organise the National District Mineral Foundation (DMF) Summit 2026 in New Delhi on Monday and Tuesday.