Chhattisgarh – A State with Immense Potential in Mineral Resources: Secretary P. Dayanand

Successful Pre-Bid Conference for Iron Ore Block Auctions in Chhattisgarh

Raipur : A successful Pre-Bid Conference was organized today at the Convention Hall of New Circuit House, Nava Raipur, to discuss the upcoming auction of iron ore blocks in the Bailadila region of Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The event, hosted by the Directorate of Geology and Mining, witnessed participation from mining investors and bidders from across the country. The conference focused on auction procedures, investment opportunities, and the state’s mineral resources.

During the meeting, discussions were held on the auction process for three world-class iron ore blocks located in Dantewada district and one block in North Bastar Kanker. Senior officials and experts from the Mining Department addressed participants’ queries and provided detailed insights into the e-auction process.

Speaking at the event, Secretary of the Mineral Department, Mr. P. Dayanand, emphasized that Chhattisgarh is a state with vast potential in mineral resources, offering extensive opportunities for industrial growth, trade, and employment. He highlighted the state’s crucial role in the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative, given its abundant reserves of high-quality iron ore. Inviting bidders to invest in Chhattisgarh, he assured them of full government support. He further stated that the Bailadila region is the backbone of India’s steel industry, and its development will significantly boost the local economy and employment.

Deputy Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Mr. Amit Dharwadkar, stated that Chhattisgarh is the second-largest mineral-rich state in India. He mentioned that the iron ore belt stretching from Bailadila to Dalli-Rajhara is among the most significant iron ore reserves globally, playing a key role in meeting the demands of India’s steel industry.

Director of the Directorate of Geology and Mining, Mr. Sunil Kumar Jain, underlined the importance of the auction process and iron ore reserves. He emphasized the necessity of securing a steady supply of raw materials to meet the country’s steel production targets by 2030.

Joint Director & Nodal Officer (Auction), Mr. Anurag Diwan, stated that Chhattisgarh is one of the most suitable states for industrial investment and will play a pivotal role in realizing the “Developed India 2047” vision.

As part of the auction process:

• Tender documents can be purchased online until 3 PM on February 27, 2025.
• The final date for tender submission is 3 PM on February 28, 2025.
• Interested bidders can obtain detailed information by visiting the Directorate of Geology and Mining, Indravati Bhavan, Block-4, Second Floor, Nava Raipur.

The Pre-Bid Conference received enthusiastic participation from mining companies, industrial groups, and investors nationwide. The high-quality iron ore reserves in Bailadila and the investment-friendly environment of Chhattisgarh generated a positive response towards the auction process. This initiative marks a significant step toward establishing Chhattisgarh as a leading state in mining and steel production.