The government of eastern Indian state of Odisha is ready for next round of auction of 11 virgin mineral blocks, a state government official said on Tuesday, August 13.
He said that notice inviting tender (NIT) for auction of these Greenfield mineral mines will be issued on August 16.
He said that the 11 virgin blocks included eight iron ore blocks and one each of manganese, limestone and graphite.
All successful bidders will be granted a composite prospecting cum mining licenses that will permit a miner to conduct exploration activities and develop the block on successful completion of exploration without having to seek any fresh licenses or approvals from the government.
As per timelines set, the auction process selecting the preferred bidders will be completed between October 22 and November 1, the official said.