The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, since coming to power in 2014, has proactively pushed for increased involvement of the private sector in mining. Following the Coalgate scam under the previous government and the first come, first served (FCFS) policy of granting mining licences falling into disrepute, the current government pushed for an open auction process to grant mining licences. Further, policy and legislative measures strive to build momentum towards a favourable environment for private investment. The union government has already approved 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) through automatic route, in commercial coal mining, and mining of other minerals. The 2015 Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Amendment Act further paved the way for this major shift in control and exploitation of mineral resources. While claiming to usher in a new era of transparency, it drastically altered existing practices, while continuing to ensure e