Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957

It provides the framework for the exploration, extraction, and regulation of minerals within the country.

The Act covers all minerals except minor minerals (like sand, gravel, clay) and atomic minerals (like uranium, thorium).

The Act was Amended in 2015 and Introduced provisions for sustainable development, environment protection, and corporate social responsibility.

The Amendment In 2016 introduced the concept of District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) for the welfare of affected communities.

The recent Amendment in 2023 introduced the concept of Exploration Licences, allowing for more flexibility in mineral exploration. 

This is expected to encourage private sector participation and expedite the discovery of new mineral deposits.

Lithium, beryllium, niobium, titanium, tantalum, and zirconium were removed from the list of atomic minerals, opening up opportunities for private sector involvement in their exploration and mining.