On December 31, 2024, the Ministry of Mines introduced the Offshore Areas Mineral Conservation and Development Rules, 2024, a landmark move aimed at streamlining the regulation of offshore mining operations. These new rules focus on mineral exploration, conservation, safety, and environmental measures, while also empowering the Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) with specific functions and responsibilities previously assigned to the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM).
Key Changes and Provisions
Transfer of Powers to the Atomic Minerals Directorate
The new rules clarify that all powers and responsibilities previously held by the Indian Bureau of Mines for certain minerals (specifically atomic minerals with a grade equal to or greater than the threshold value) will now be transferred to the Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research. This includes the submission of reports and compliance with regulations, effectively shifting the oversight of atomic minerals to the AMD. The Directorate’s officers will take on roles previously assigned to IBM officials, such as the Controller General or Chief Controller of Mines.
Overview of Key Chapters
The rules consist of the following 12 chapters, each addressing vital aspects of offshore mining operations:
Chapter II: Reconnaissance and Exploration Operations – Outlines procedures for conducting initial exploration activities in offshore areas.
Chapter III: Production Operations – Covers the regulation of production activities within offshore mining operations.
Chapter IV: Maps, Sections, and Profiles – Specifies the requirements for detailed maps and geological profiles in exploration and production areas.
Chapter V: Safety Measures – Focuses on the implementation of safety protocols to ensure the protection of workers and the environment.
Chapter VI: Marine Environment – Sets guidelines for the protection of the marine environment in areas impacted by mining operations.
Chapter VII: Notices and Returns – Establishes the process for submitting notices and returns related to mining operations.
Chapter VIII: Employment of Geologists and Mining Engineers – Ensures that qualified professionals are employed in offshore mining operations.
Chapter IX: Examination of Minerals and Issue of Directives – Describes the examination of extracted minerals and the issuance of necessary directives.
Chapter X: Appeal and Penalty – Provides the process for appealing decisions and penalties for non-compliance with the rules.
Chapter XI: Miscellaneous – Covers other essential provisions that don’t fit into the specific chapters above.
Chapter XII: Offshore Mining Regulation System – Details the overall regulatory framework and operational guidelines for offshore mining.
New Forms for Regulatory Compliance
To ensure smooth operations and compliance with the new rules, the Ministry of Mines has introduced several new forms that operators must use for various reporting and regulatory tasks. These forms include:
FORM A: Notice of commencement of reconnaissance and exploration operations
FORM B: Progress update report of exploration operations for the quarter or year
FORM C: Notice of intimation of commencement of production operations or reopening of the mine
FORM D: Notice of intention to abandon a mine or part of the mine
FORM E: Notice of temporary discontinuance of mine operations
FORM G: Monthly return for all minerals
FORM H: Annual return for all minerals
FORM I: Notice of certain appointments, resignations, terminations, or changes of address
These forms are designed to standardize the reporting process, providing a clear structure for operators to communicate their activities, progress, and any significant changes in their operations.
