India Mines and Minerals Amendment Bill dispute

The Indian Parliament passed the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, to modernize mineral governance and secure access to critical minerals. The legislation establishes a uniform fiscal framework by restricting the ability of states to impose taxes, cesses, and levies on mineral rights and mineral-bearing lands. The Ministry of Mines stated the amendment aims to improve investment attractiveness and support strategic goals like ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, clarifying that approximately 90 per cent of mining-related taxes will continue to accrue to states.

Opposition to the bill has intensified among mineral-rich states. Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren labeled the legislation a “black bill” that undermines state authority. He argued that because Jharkhand holds approximately 40 per cent of India’s total mineral wealth, the central government’s move threatens the state’s ability to manage its assets and could force the closure of social security and welfare schemes, such as the Maiya Samman Yojana. Soren has threatened massive nationwide protests across every district and panchayat if the amendment is not withdrawn.

In Odisha, opposition leader Naveen Patnaik warned the law poses a “serious threat to Odisha's fiscal autonomy” and could result in massive revenue losses. Conversely, industry leaders, including Vedanta Ltd Chairman Anil Agarwal, have welcomed the bill, suggesting it will improve the ease of doing business and unlock India's mineral potential.