Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 6: The Central Government has strongly denied media reports alleging that it has permitted private entities to explore and mine atomic minerals such as uranium and thorium in offshore regions. Terming such claims as "misleading and factually incorrect," the Ministry of Mines clarified that the newly notified Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Operating Rights Rules, 2025, grant operating rights exclusively to government entities.

Reiterating the legislative provisions, the ministry stated that the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and Regulation) (Amendment) Act, 2023 — which came into effect on August 17, 2023 — strictly restricts the grant of any form of mining license for atomic minerals to only the Government, Government-owned companies, or corporations.

The Offshore Areas Atomic Minerals Operating Rights Rules, 2025, notified on July 14, 2025, were formulated in consultation with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). The rules are clear in their intent and scope — allowing no room for private sector involvement in such sensitive mineral exploration.

Citing Section 6 of the OAMDR Act, 2002, the ministry emphasized that the law explicitly bars the issuance of exploration or production licences for atomic minerals to private entities. Further, Section 35 empowers the Central Government to frame necessary rules for the effective enforcement of the Act.

"In view of this, the reports suggesting private sector involvement are inconsistent with the facts and the legal framework," the ministry stated, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining transparency, legislative compliance, and national security in the handling of atomic mineral resources.

The government concluded by assuring that atomic mineral exploration remains firmly under state control, in line with national interest and policy directives.