Protest and Passage of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026
The Lok Sabha witnessed significant protests from Opposition members during the Monsoon session on August 12, 2026, when the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, was passed without debate.
Bill's Provisions and Implications
- The Bill restricts State governments from imposing additional taxes, cesses, or levies on mineral rights.
- It grants the Central government greater control over the regulation of mineral-rich lands.
- Coal and Mines Minister highlighted that different fiscal policies by States create sectoral uncertainty, potentially increasing costs and encouraging imports, thereby affecting domestic supply chains.