New Delhi [India]: In a significant boost to India’s domestic mineral sector, Oil India Limited (OIL) and NLC India Limited (NLCIL) have emerged as preferred bidders for critical and strategic mineral blocks in the 5th tranche of auctions conducted by the Ministry of Mines.
Oil India Limited has been awarded a composite license for the Jorkian – Satipura – Khunja Amalgamated Potash and Halite Block, located in the Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan. This marks the first-ever successful auction of Potash blocks by the Government of India—an important move towards unlocking domestic Potash reserves and reducing import dependency.
“OIL’s strategic diversification into critical minerals represents a well-timed response to national priorities to support India’s self-reliance goals,”
— Oil India Limited
NLC India Limited Acquires Phosphorite and Limestone Blocks
NLCIL, a public sector company under the Ministry of Coal, has successfully bid for two critical mineral blocks—Raipura and Semhardih, both situated in Chhattisgarh. These blocks hold significant Phosphorite and Limestone reserves, crucial for India’s fertilizer and industrial sectors.
“It is worthy to note that, with production of phosphorite from these mines, the huge dependence on import can be reduced and can greatly contribute for the sustainability and growth of agriculture sector in the country,”
— NLCIL statement
The move aligns with NLCIL’s long-term strategy to expand into the critical minerals domain, reinforcing national goals of energy transition, agricultural resilience, and industrial growth.
“These acquisitions are aligned with NLCIL’s long-term strategy to expand its presence in the mining of critical minerals, which are increasingly vital for clean energy technologies, fertilizers, electronics, and industrial processes,”
— NLCIL statement
On the historic development, Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, Chairman and Managing Director of NLCIL, emphasized the national importance of the acquisition:
“The acquisition of these critical mineral blocks is a proud moment for NLCIL and a significant step in supporting the Government’s vision of ensuring a resilient and sustainable mineral ecosystem. Phosphorite is crucial for food security and the fertilizer industry, and securing these resources strengthens our country’s journey towards self-reliance. As we progress towards a sustainable and decarbonized future, critical minerals will be the building blocks of new-age technologies, green energy solutions, and national prosperity.”
Strategic Importance
Both companies’ new assets are key to supporting India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission, particularly in reducing import dependency for fertilizers and industrial minerals, and expanding the role of critical minerals in clean energy and technological innovation.
NLCIL’s growing portfolio now includes thermal power, lignite mining, renewable energy, and green hydrogen projects—enhancing its position as a diversified, future-ready enterprise.