Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957
The MMDR Act is the primary central legislation governing the mining sector in India. It regulates the grant of mining leases and prospecting licences for all minerals except petroleum and natural gas, and empowers state governments to frame rules for minor minerals.
- Amended in 2015 to introduce transparent auction-based allocation of mining rights and establish the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for mining-affected communities
- Section 4 requires a mining lease for undertaking any mining operations; illegal mining is punishable under Section 21 with imprisonment up to five years and fines
- Meghalaya has a framework under the MMDR Act to prevent illegal mining, transport, and storage of coal
- The 2021 amendment further strengthened provisions against illegal mining and introduced the concept of exploration licences
● Tracked since February 07, 2026 · last seen August 10, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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