Goa Resumes Large-Scale Mining, 12 Blocks to Begin Operations

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced in the Goa Legislative Assembly on 29 July 2025 that large-scale mining operations will resume in the state starting October 2025.

Tenders have been floated for 12 mining blocks, with operations already underway in three and four others nearing the completion of the auction process. “We are working to restart sustainable mining across Goa in a full-fledged manner as soon as possible,” the Chief Minister said, adding that two major blocks will also become operational shortly.

To date, the government has conducted 29 e-auctions, with four remaining blocks scheduled for auction. However, CM Sawant noted that approvals from the Director General of Mines and Safety are still pending for some blocks. Additionally, unidentified mineral dumps located on government land will be auctioned to maximise resource utilisation.

Addressing concerns in South Goa, the Chief Minister acknowledged that several mines are awaiting forest clearances, which is delaying progress in the region. Quepem MLA Altone D’Costa highlighted that only three of the 12 blocks currently operational are located in South Goa, where local communities are eagerly awaiting the return of sustainable mining activities.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.