Ministry of Mines Reclassifies Limestone as a Major Mineral under the MMDR Act, 1957.

In October 2025, the Ministry of Mines (MoM) officially reclassified ‘Limestone’ as a Major Mineral by removing end-use restrictions. The notification, issued under Section 20A of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act, 1957), aims to streamline mining operations and ensure a seamless transition for existing leaseholders.

      - The Ministry directed that all existing minor mineral limestone leaseholders must register with the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) and continue paying royalty at state-prescribed rates until March 31, 2026. This measure ensures a smooth administrative shift from minor to major mineral status.

      - Mining plans already approved by state governments for limestone extraction will remain valid until March 31, 2027. After this period, leaseholders will be required to obtain fresh approvals in accordance with the revised major mineral classification.

      - To facilitate the transition process, the Ministry has exempted leaseholders from submitting digital aerial images of mining areas and online self-assessment reports under the star rating template until July 1, 2027, easing regulatory compliance during the initial adjustment phase.

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