Government Eases Rules by Classifying Limestone Fully as a Major Mineral. On Tuesday, the government announced that limestone will now be fully classified as a major mineral, removing earlier distinctions based on how it was used. This change is expected to improve ease of doing business by allowing leaseholders to mine, sell, or use limestone freely, without being limited by its end use. Previously, limestone was treated as both a minor and major mineral—its classification depended on how it was used. If used to make lime for building materials in kilns, it was a minor mineral. But if used for making cement, fertilizers, chemicals, sugar, or steel, it was considered a major mineral. To ensure a smooth transition, the Ministry of Mines issued an order on October 13, 2025, stating that all current minor mineral leases for limestone will now be treated as major mineral leases, without any disruption. This decision came after recommendations from an inter-ministerial committee led by a NITI Aayog member, which consulted with industry stakeholders. The change addresses the declining availability of limestone for lime-making, since most limestone is now used by industries like cement and chemicals. By removing limestone from the minor minerals list, the government has met a long-standing demand from leaseholders, who can now freely sell limestone to cement and other industries. The move is expected to boost construction activity, create jobs, and support economic growth.

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