Patna, August 2026: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Monday announced that mining operations in the state will begin resuming from October 15, as the government steps up efforts to utilise its mineral resources for infrastructure development, industrial growth and public welfare.
Choudhary made the announcement while inaugurating a workshop on the auction of critical and strategic mineral blocks and the National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust (NMEDT), organised by the Ministry of Coal and Mines, Government of India, at Hotel Maurya in Patna. Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey and other senior officials were also present at the event.
The Chief Minister said Bihar has substantial mineral potential that needs to be systematically explored and utilised while protecting the state's historical and cultural heritage. He said the government is committed to ensuring that mineral resources contribute directly to the development and welfare of the people.
According to Choudhary, surveys have already progressed in 28 of the state's 44 identified mining blocks. The government intends to complete the process for more than 30 blocks by September 30, while efforts are underway to make the remaining blocks operational within nine months. He said tenders have already been issued for several mineral blocks, while the auction and allocation process for others is in progress.
“Mining activities in Bihar will be set in motion from October 15,” Choudhary said, adding that officials have been directed to accelerate the process and ensure that the state’s mineral potential is translated into economic opportunities.
Highlighting Bihar’s resource base, the Chief Minister referred to limestone reserves in Rohtas and mineral potential in Aurangabad, Jehanabad and Jamui. He also pointed to opportunities in Gaya, Banka and Bhagalpur, saying that these resources would be developed in a planned manner to support the state's economic expansion.
Choudhary stressed that mineral royalties would be utilised transparently for public welfare and development. He said mineral wealth must not be misused and that revenues generated from mining should contribute to infrastructure, public services and broader economic development.
The Chief Minister linked the renewed focus on mining with Bihar’s expanding development agenda. He noted that the state’s budget has reached ₹3.47 lakh crore, with major infrastructure and development projects being implemented at a rapid pace. He said Bihar is not short of resources and that the priority now is to make optimal use of them to accelerate development.
He also said the government is working towards attracting investments worth ₹5 lakh crore by November, alongside plans to establish mineral-related centres in the state. Choudhary said discussions had also been held with Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy regarding the development of the sector.
Emphasising Bihar’s investment potential, the Chief Minister said various incentives and concessions are being offered to investors to encourage industrial development. He urged entrepreneurs and investors to look at Bihar with confidence and contribute to its economic transformation.
“We urge everyone to invest in Bihar with an open mind and help take the state forward,” Choudhary said, assuring investors of a safe environment and full support from the state government.
The workshop also addressed opportunities emerging from the auction of critical and strategic minerals and the broader framework for mineral exploration and development. Union Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey and Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Coal and Mines Kadam Sandeep V. also addressed the gathering.
The government expects the renewed mining activity, combined with investment promotion and mineral exploration, to strengthen Bihar’s industrial base, generate employment and create additional revenue for development while ensuring responsible utilisation of the state’s natural resources.
