New Delhi: The Federation of Indian Mineral Industries (FIMI) has welcomed the government's recent mining reforms, the industry body said on Tuesday. It set out its position at its 60th Annual General meeting (AGM) in New Delhi, where it said the reforms were aimed at strengthening the sector and improving the ease of doing business.
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The federation also stressed the strategic importance of critical minerals. It called for integrated value chains that run from exploration and mining through processing, recycling and manufacturing. To secure the country's supply, it sought stronger international partnerships "to secure reliable and diversified mineral supplies."
Keshav Chandra, Secretary in the Ministry of Mines, inaugurated the meeting. Dr Veena Kumari D, Additional Secretary in the ministry, attended as guest of honour.
The FIMI-Sustainable Mining Initiative (SMI) released a study at the meeting. It is titled "Assessment of India's Mineral Assets and Corresponding Requirement of Land for Compensatory Afforestation (CA)". An industry-led technical committee chaired by Dr Pankaj Satija guided the work.
The study looks at the challenges miners face in meeting CA requirements to obtain forest clearances. According to FIMI, it presents "practical recommendations to improve the efficiency and transparency of the Forest Clearance and CA framework, while facilitating timely mineral development and supporting environmental protection."
FIMI also released "The Essential Compendium on Minerals and Mining Sector." It brings together information on mineral resources, mining, production, consumption and trade, in India and worldwide. The federation said the compendium would serve as "a useful reference for policymakers, industry and other stakeholders."
The federation also gave out its awards for 2025–26. They cover environment, social responsibility, health and safety, mining innovation, sustainability, and environmental, social and governance (ESG) practice, along with a category for excellence.
The AGM also marked a change at the top of FIMI. Prabodh Mohanty took over as president from Shantesh Gureddi, who has completed his term.
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FIMI said it would work with the central government, state governments and industry "to support responsible mineral development, strengthen raw-material security and contribute to India's economic and industrial growth."