MMDR Bill 2026 explained: Why states are opposing the new mining rules

The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, passed by Parliament on August 13, 2026, gives the Centre greater control over mineral-bearing land and limits states’ powers to impose taxes and levies on mineral resources. The government says this will create a more predictable mining regime, reduce costs and encourage investment. States, however, fear losing significant revenue and fiscal autonomy. The concerns come after a 2024 Supreme Court ruling upheld states’ power to tax mineral resources, with Odisha facing potentially significant revenue losses.