- The 4th Conference of Mining Ministers focused on strengthening Centre-State coordination to accelerate mineral exploration and sustainable mining. - Emphasis was laid on leveraging technological advancements, streamlining auction processes, and enhancing transparency in the mining sector. - Discussions highlighted the importance of critical minerals for the clean energy transition and national economic growth. - **Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act:** The primary central legislation governing India's mining sector, establishing the regulatory framework for mineral exploration, extraction, and concessions under Union control. - **Ministry of Mines:** The Union government department responsible for formulating policy, administering legislation, and overseeing the survey and development of major minerals across India. - **State Governments:** Sub-national administrative bodies holding ownership over onshore mineral wealth and executing regulatory powers regarding minor minerals and mineral concession grants within their territorial boundaries. **Introduction** The 4th Conference of Mining Ministers brought together union and state stakeholders to deliberate on key initiatives, streamline mineral exploration, enhance auction transparency, and foster robust Centre-State coordination for sustainable growth in the mining sector. **Core Issue and Detailed Points** - The 4th Conference of Mining Ministers focused on strengthening Centre-State coordination to accelerate mineral exploration and sustainable mining. - Emphasis was laid on leveraging technological advancements, streamlining auction processes, and enhancing transparency in the mining sector. - Discussions highlighted the importance of critical minerals for the clean energy transition and national economic growth. **Key Statutory Bodies, Acts & Concepts** - **Mines and Minerals Development and Regulation Act:** The primary central legislation governing India's mining sector, establishing the regulatory framework for mineral exploration, extraction, and concessions under Union control. - **Ministry of Mines:** The Union government department responsible for formulating policy, administering legislation, and overseeing the survey and development of major minerals across India. - **State Governments:** Sub-national administrative bodies holding ownership over onshore mineral wealth and executing regulatory powers regarding minor minerals and mineral concession grants within their territorial boundaries.