July 23, 2025

The state cabinet in Goa has amended the e-auction policy for dump handling, making it obligatory for mining companies to provide jobs to local residents. The revised policy grants the directorate of mines and geology authority to re-auction dumps and blacklist the successful bidder if they do not initiate dump handling within 180 days. The amendments come following the Supreme Court's approval for dump mining activities based on an expert committee report. The policy also requires bidders to submit a detailed project report outlining waste estimation, handling plans, costs, drainage patterns, and reclamation plans. Failure to comply may lead to upfront payment demands, re-auctioning of dumps, and blacklisting of the bidder. The policy aims to regulate iron ore dump handling in Goa more effectively, with auctions following the state-designed e-auction policy. The updated policy, approved in 2024, includes provisions for bank guarantees, upfront payments, pre-bid EMD payments, and bidder net worth criteria. Furthermore, a model tender document was developed to align with the revised e-auction policy. The subsequent corrigendum introduced new requirements, such as proper waste handling and disposal plans and bank guarantees matching estimated waste handling costs.

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Tags: Goa, Mining, Policy, Locals, Jobs,