MINING LEASES FOR INDIA INC SOON

Companies would soon be able to bid for mining leases in all major minerals. The Government is planning major reforms in the mining sector by which powers of the state will be reduced and mining leases will be granted through a process of competitive bidding. The Prime Minister's office has asked mines and coal ministries to seek legal opinion on starting competitive bidding process for mining leases of all major minerals excluding petroleum and natural gas.