The Directorate of Mines and Geology, Government of Odisha had invited tenders through a 'Notice Inviting Tender' dated May 29, 2026 for participation in the auction process for grant of Mining Lease for the Karlapat bauxite block.
BALCO qualified at the initial bid stage and participated in the live e-auction for the Mining Lease. The company received official notification at 11:55 am IST on August 07, 2026 declaring BALCO as the Preferred Bidder.
Block Details
The Karlapat Bauxite Block has the following characteristics:
- Located in the State of Odisha
- Total area: 1,822.61 hectares
- Estimated mineral reserves: approximately 248 Million Tonnes
- Exploration level: G2 level
Strategic Rationale
The company states that the block "fits into strategic backward integration for Company's business," indicating it will secure raw material supply for Vedanta's aluminium operations.