National

India Launches Its First Exploration License Auction and AI-Powered Mineral Targeting Hackathon

Published

1 year ago

March 14, 2025

In a groundbreaking initiative, the Ministry of Mines, in collaboration with the Goa government, has launched India’s first Exploration Licence (EL) auction, aimed at unlocking vital and underutilized mineral resources nationwide.

Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant shared the stage at the event, which also featured a “Roadshow” for the fifth round of critical mineral block auctions and kickstarted the AI Hackathon 2025, themed “Mineral Targeting using Artificial Intelligence.”

The purpose of the AI Hackathon 2025 is to utilize advanced datasets to uncover hidden mineral deposits and foster innovation in sustainable mining practices.

Chaired by G. Kishan Reddy, the session convened leading officials from both state and central governments to discuss various important topics. Highlighting the significance of this initiative, Union Minister Reddy remarked, “For the first time, India is initiating systematic early-stage exploration through a structured and transparent auction process. This reform will accelerate the discovery of vital minerals, enhance investor confidence, and contribute to a self-sufficient, forward-looking mineral ecosystem that aligns with India’s clean energy and industrial goals.”

The discussions encompassed crucial issues, including strategies for auctioning unexplored mining blocks in Goa, plans for revitalizing dormant mines, and approaches for managing expired and lapsed leases in adherence to Section 10A(2) of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957.

CM Sawant praised the Union government’s reformative measures, emphasizing that “Goa has a rich mining heritage, and we are dedicated to fostering responsible, technology-driven mineral development. These reforms will not only unleash India’s mineral potential but also generate new opportunities for sustainable mining.”

Updates on the operationalization of auctioned mining blocks and ongoing exploration projects were shared, putting a spotlight on the significant contributions of organizations like the Geological Survey of India and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd.

The Chief Minister underscored the economic benefits of reviving mining activities in Goa, noting their importance in strengthening the state economy and contributing to the Gross State Domestic Product. He also expressed gratitude to the Union government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their unwavering support in these initiatives.

The event concluded with the auction of 13 exploration license blocks covering essential minerals, including Rare Earth Elements (REEs), zinc, diamonds, copper, and Platinum Group Elements. This transparent bidding process is anticipated to enhance mineral exploration, increase private sector engagement, and bolster India’s technological and energy independence.

National

Jammu University Introduces Fuel-Saving Measures

Published

3 days ago

May 14, 2026

Namma Kudla

National : The University of Jammu has announced several fuel-saving measures following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel conservation. Vice-Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai said the university has decided to conduct all PhD viva voce examinations online to reduce travel and save fuel.

The university will also prefer virtual speakers for national and international conferences. In another step, the Academic Council meeting planned in Poonch has been shifted to the Jammu University campus to avoid unnecessary travel.

Prof Rai said the measures will help save fuel, time and resources. He also encouraged university staff to use bicycles and carpool while travelling to the campus.

National

One Year On: Pahalgam Attack Still Haunts the Nation

Published

4 weeks ago

April 21, 2026

Namma Kudla

National: One year after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, the nation remembers the 26 people who lost their lives. The attack took place on April 22 at Baisaran, a popular tourist spot.

At first, reports said only five people were injured. Later, it became clear that it was one of the worst terror attacks in the region in decades. Terrorists came out of the forest and opened fire on tourists.

Survivors said the attackers separated men from women and children. They then shot the men at close range. Many victims were reportedly targeted after being asked about their religion.

A heartbreaking image of Himanshi Narwal sitting beside her husband’s body became a symbol of the tragedy. Her husband, a naval officer, was among those killed.

The group The Resistance front, linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. The case was investigated by the National Investigation Agency.

After months of tracking, security forces launched Operation Mahadev. On July 28, 2025, all three terrorists were killed after a long search operation.

The attack remains a painful memory and a reminder of the need for strong security.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

1 month ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.