Critical mineral block auctions scrapped over low bidders interest

The government has cancelled the auction of nine critical and strategic mineral blocks from the seventh round of sales due to poor investor response and a lack of qualified bidders. The blocks are located in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. The move is a setback to India's efforts to strengthen energy security, clean-tech manufacturing and reduce import dependence.