- MMDR Act 1957 applies to all minerals, including coal.
- Impact of 2015 Amendments:
- Mining Leases granted by State Governments through auctions (competitive bidding).
- Increased government share from mining (companies pay amount committed during auction besides royalty).
- Mining Leases granted for 50 years, no renewal.
- Stringent penal provisions for illegal mining, higher penalties and jail terms.
- Constitution of special courts for fast-track trial of illegal mining cases.
- Central government empowered to intervene if states delay orders.
- Creation of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) for benefit of mining-affected persons.