NLC India Limited has officially been granted composite licences to carry out detailed geological exploration for mineral blocks in the Balod District of Chhattisgarh. Having emerged as the preferred bidder in the Tranche-V auction conducted by the Ministry of Mines, the company has now successfully moved forward with the project following the submission of performance securities and the receipt of the Letter of Intent for the Semhardih and Raipura blocks.
Strategic Expansion into Critical Minerals
NLC India Limited has achieved a significant operational milestone with the receipt of composite licences for two major mining projects: the Semhardih Phosphorite & Limestone Block and the Raipura Phosphorite & Limestone Block. Both sites are located in the Balod District of Chhattisgarh, marking a key expansion in the company’s portfolio of critical and strategic minerals.
Project Development Timeline
The progression of these projects follows a structured timeline of events:
- May 27, 2025: NLC India emerged as the preferred bidder during the Tranche-V auction.
- June 10, 2025: Performance securities for both blocks were formally submitted to the Government of Chhattisgarh.
- September 2, 2025: The State Government issued the Letter of Intent (LoI) for the composite licences.
- March 30, 2026: The company successfully prepared and submitted the comprehensive Scheme of Prospecting.
- April 24, 2026: The formal grant of the composite licences was issued by the Mineral Resources Department, allowing the company to proceed with detailed geological exploration.
Focus on Geological Exploration
With the licences now secured, NLC India is set to initiate extensive geological activities in the region. This development underscores the company’s commitment to unlocking the resource potential of these blocks, contributing to both the local economy in Chhattisgarh and the broader national strategy regarding critical minerals.
Source: BSE
