Shri P. Dayanand, Secretary of the Mineral Department
TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 15, 2025: Chhattisgarh, renowned for its vast mineral wealth, is positioning itself as a significant player in India’s industrial and economic landscape. In a move aimed at harnessing its rich mineral resources, the state government organized a Pre-Bid Conference in Nava Raipur to kick off the upcoming auction of iron ore blocks in the Bailadila region of Bastar.
Held at the Convention Hall of the New Circuit House, the event attracted prominent mining investors and industrial stakeholders from across the country. The discussions focused on the auction process, investment prospects, and Chhattisgarh’s expansive mineral potential. The auction will feature three world-class iron ore blocks in Dantewada district and one in North Bastar Kanker, a key area for industrial development.
Chhattisgarh’s Strategic Role in National Development
Addressing the attendees, Shri P. Dayanand, Secretary of the Mineral Department, emphasized the state’s vast untapped mineral resources and its growing significance in India’s industrial growth, trade, and employment. He underscored the importance of Chhattisgarh’s high-quality iron ore reserves, which are integral to achieving India’s vision of becoming Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Shri Dayanand urged investors to seize the opportunities available in Chhattisgarh’s mining sector, assuring them of full government support in facilitating seamless investments. He highlighted the Bailadila region as the backbone of India’s steel industry, stressing that its development would be a major driver of economic growth and employment in the state.
Chhattisgarh: A Mineral Powerhouse of India
Shri Amit Dharwadkar, Deputy Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), praised Chhattisgarh’s standing as the second most mineral-rich state in the country. He pointed out that the Bailadila to Dalli-Rajhara iron ore belt is one of the largest and most important reserves globally, a vital resource for meeting the growing demands of India’s steel industry.
Ensuring Sustainable Raw Material Supply for Steel Industry
As India aims to become a global leader in steel production, the uninterrupted supply of high-grade iron ore will be key to achieving this ambition. Shri Sunil Kumar Jain, Director of the Directorate of Geology and Mining, stressed the importance of securing a steady supply of iron ore to meet the country’s steel production targets for 2030.
Investment-Friendly Policies and Auction Details
Chhattisgarh’s commitment to industrial growth was further reiterated by Shri Anurag Diwan, Joint Director and Nodal Officer (Auction). He highlighted the state’s investor-friendly policies and its crucial role in the vision of a Developed India by 2047.
As the auction process begins, interested parties can purchase online tender documents until February 27, 2025, with the final date for submission set for February 28, 2025. Bidders can obtain further details from the Directorate of Geology and Mining in Nava Raipur.
Strong Investor Interest in Chhattisgarh’s Mining Future
The Pre-Bid Conference saw a strong turnout from top mining companies, industrial groups, and investors, reflecting growing confidence in Chhattisgarh’s mineral sector. With its high-grade iron ore reserves and a pro-investment policy framework, the state is well-positioned to attract significant domestic and global investment, accelerating its industrial growth and creating new economic opportunities. This marks a critical step toward reinforcing Chhattisgarh’s leadership in India’s mining and steel production sectors.
