Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The Odisha government issued a notice inviting tender (NIT) for online auction of as many as 11 mineral blocks in the state. Around seven iron ore blocks are grabbed for the mineral blocks up.
According to the reports, Nadidih (BICO), Purheibahal, Chandiposhi, Jumka Pathiriposhi Pahar, Dholtapahar, Netrabandha Pahar (West) and Gandhalpada, two composite blocks of iron ore and manganese–Nadidih (FEEGRADE) and Teherai, one composite block of iron ore and dolomite—Kasia and one bauxite block—Karlapat are grabbed for the mineral blocks up.
Kasia, Nadidih (BICO), Nadidih (FEEGRADE) and Teherai are the expired blocks, whose lease periods were expired on March 31, 2020, the remaining seven mines are virgin blocks.
The report further added that a bauxite block is going to be auctioned for the first time since the beginning of the mining auction process. While the last auction of any mineral block was done in January and February 2020, no blocks were auction since then in view of the Covid-19 pandemic and awaiting the Centre’s new auction rules.
The report then added that the last dates for purchase of tender document and submission of the bid are August 19 and August 24 respectively. Official sources said the state government has planned to complete the auction process by September end.
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