India: Madhya Pradesh govt notifies mineral blocks for auctions

The Madhya Pradesh government has begun the auction of mining leases for 12 blocks including 1 iron ore and 2 bauxite deposits.

Along with these, it will also auction rights for exploration and mining to nine composite leases, including 7 blocks of manganese, 1 bauxite and 1 bauxite-limestone. The tender notice, had a clear disclaimer stating, "the state government makes no representation whatsoever, express, implicit or otherwise, regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the said geological report. The bidder can participate, accepting the risks involved and agreeing to not hold the state liable for the same. Any mistake or error in relating to the geological report shall not vitiate or render voidable the tender process, mining lease or MDPA."

On a separate note, the value of the estimated reserve has been indicated. Barring six (unmarked), most of these blocks had earlier been promised to someone else and are now free after the amendment to Section 10 (A) 2b.

List of Mineral Blocks being put up for Auction