Mining sector Rationalise levy of stamp duty

Amendments in mineral laws (both coal and non-coal) since early 2015 have paved the way for auctions as the method for allocation of mineral assets. A number of such assets in segments like coal, iron ore, limestone, bauxite, and gold, have been auctioned in the last over five years. Recently, the Union government opened up the coal sector to commercial mining, and around 38 coal blocks have been identified for auctions, as part of the ongoing first round of auctions. The idea is to bring down the coal imports of nearly 250 million tonnes per annum.

The Ministry of Mines too is contemplating a series of reforms to enhance mineral production and promote private investment. While the central government has been deregulating the mining sector, a commensurate effort is required at the state level for private investments to materialise. Under the current set-up, while coal blocks are allocated by the Centre and non-coal minerals by the states, the mining lease in all cases is executed by the states.