Mining operations in Goa are poised to gain momentum as the Goa state pollution control board (GSPCB) has approved nine companies to extract 7.5 million tonnes of iron ore annually. This decision comes as the state prepares for the upcoming mining session, which is set to commence after the monsoon. The total extraction capacity for Goa is capped at 20 million tonnes per annum. Director of Mines and Geology Narayan Gad reported that over 4 million tonnes were extracted in 2025-2026, with more than 2 million tonnes sold. While public hearings for some mineral blocks are still pending, the government has auctioned 20 mineral blocks, with only nine receiving operational consent. The Directorate has outlined a timeline for future mineral block auctions, aiming to identify new blocks by the end of September and conduct auctions by March 2027. The government is also working on a mechanism to set maximum production limits for these blocks, adhering to the Supreme Court's export cap of 20 million tonnes for the state.