New Delhi, February 21 (HS): The Central Government on Friday included barytes, feldspar, mica and quartz in the category of 'major' minerals. This move will promote the exploration and scientific mining of such resources, which are the primary source of many important minerals.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Mines, it was said that the ministry has included barytes, feldspar, mica and quartz in the category of major minerals by removing them from the list of minor minerals through a gazette notification dated February 20, 2025. The ministry has taken this decision after the Union Cabinet approved the National Critical Mineral Mission on January 29, 2025. This mission envisages the exploration and mining of important minerals within the country, including the extraction of residues from these minerals during mining.

According to the notification issued by the ministry, the reclassification of barite, feldspar, mica and quartz minerals will not adversely affect the duration of existing leases. Leases for these minerals as major minerals will be extended for a period of 50 years from the date of grant or till the completion of the renewal period, if any, later as per Section 8-A of the MMDR Act, 1957.

According to the Ministry of Mines, these mines will gradually be registered with the Indian Bureau of Mines and regulated as major minerals. Which has been provided a transition period of four months till June 30, 2025. Revenue from the mines of these minerals will continue to be received by the state government as before.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar