By Our Correspondent
Bhubaneswar, January 5, 2015

Odisha cabinet on Monday decided to allocate all non-coal mines in the state through the public auction route.

The move, as claimed by the state government, would have far reaching consequences for the mining sector in the state.

The highest bidder in the public auction will be awarded the mineral bearing mines, the cabinet decided.

All mines awaiting second and subsequent renewal of their leases will also be allocated through the public auction route, the cabinet decided.

However, the decision will not be applicable to mines awaiting first renewal and those leased out to Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) and other public sector companies.

Separate auctions will be held for captive and non-captive mines.