Overview
- New rates specify graphite at 2% of ASP for ore with at least 80% fixed carbon and 4% for lower grades, caesium and rubidium at 2% each, and zirconium at 1%.
- Graphite shifts from a per‑tonne levy to an ASP‑based royalty so payments track price differences across grades.
- The Cabinet says the change will promote auctions of blocks containing caesium, rubidium and zirconium, unlocking associated minerals such as lithium, tungsten, rare‑earth elements and niobium.
- Officials frame the step as reducing import dependence and supply‑chain vulnerabilities, with India currently importing about 60% of its graphite needs.
- The decision includes amendments to the MMDR Act’s Second Schedule and follows the September NIT for the sixth tranche offering five graphite blocks, two rubidium blocks and one block each of caesium and zirconium.