New rules to manage offshore atomic resources
Offshore Atomic Mineral Mining Rules 2025 Announced: The Indian government has released the Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Operating Right Rules, 2025 to streamline the process of exploring and mining atomic minerals in offshore territories. These regulations were introduced under the provisions of the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002, aiming to strengthen the governance of nuclear-related mineral activities.
Threshold criteria for applying the rules
The enforcement of these rules depends on the concentration levels of atomic minerals. Only deposits that meet or exceed the officially defined minimum threshold will be considered eligible for exploration or mining. This approach helps avoid unnecessary operations on low-value sites.
Licences limited to government-approved bodies
Only entities that receive a formal nomination from the central government can obtain permits for exploration or production of atomic minerals in offshore areas. For any foreign firm interested in carrying out exploration activities, getting clearance from government authorities is mandatory before starting any operation. This clause is added to safeguard national strategic interests.
Strategic importance of uranium reserves
Uranium is an essential input for generating nuclear power in India. However, the country has limited uranium deposits, which are also of lower grade than those found in major global producers. Some of the key uranium extraction zones include:
- Jaduguda in Jharkhand, the country’s first commercial uranium mine
- Other notable sites like Bagjata (Jharkhand) and Lambapur-Peddagattu (Andhra Pradesh)
Static GK fact: India’s nuclear-grade uranium is processed and mined primarily by the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL), which operates under the Department of Atomic Energy.
Thorium-rich coastal deposits hold long-term potential
In contrast to uranium, India possesses significant thorium deposits, especially in the form of monazite-rich beach sands. These are mainly found along the shores of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha. Although thorium is not yet used widely, it has strong potential in the country’s future nuclear energy programs.
Static GK Tip: The mineral monazite, which is abundant in Indian beach sands, typically contains 8–10% thorium, making it a valuable asset for energy planning.
Nuclear regulation aligned with clean energy goals
These updated rules are a strategic move to unlock offshore atomic resources while ensuring government oversight and security. They reflect India’s broader vision to expand nuclear energy as a clean power source, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support the transition to a sustainable energy future.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Offshore Atomic Mineral Mining Rules 2025 Announced:
| Topic | Detail |
| Law Governing the Rules | Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) Act, 2002 |
| Rule Name | Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Operating Right Rules, 2025 |
| Applicable Only If | Atomic mineral concentration exceeds set threshold |
| Key Uranium Locations | Jaduguda, Bagjata (Jharkhand), Lambapur-Peddagattu (AP) |
| First Uranium Mine | Jaduguda in Jharkhand |
| Uranium Regulatory Body | Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) |
| Thorium Source | Monazite sands (Kerala, Odisha) |
| Thorium Content in Monazite | 8–10% |
| Government Role | Grants exploration licences and leases |
| Foreign Entity Condition | Requires prior government approval |
