Around February 5–10, 2026, the Ministry of Mines notified the Offshore Areas Mineral (Prevention of Illegal Mining and Transportation) Rules, 2026, which came into immediate effect. The rules apply to all offshore minerals except hydrocarbons and aim to prevent illegal mining, illegal storage, and unauthorised transportation of minerals from offshore blocks.

Key provisions include mandatory deployment of real-time electronic monitoring systems by holders of operating rights and carriers. These must track vessels, record weight, monitor run-of-mine volume and density, and continuously capture images and video. Before dispatching minerals, operating right holders must upload all details — quantity, grade, consignee, transport routes, royalty payments, and carrier particulars — on a dedicated regulation portal, from which a digitally signed transit permit is issued for each carrier.

Enforcement officers may inspect mineral stocks, verify accounts, draw samples, and seize vessels, machinery, or other property. Penalties include imprisonment up to five years, fines of ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore, and an additional ₹5 lakh per day for continuing offences. India's continental shelf and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extending 200 nautical miles hold significant deposits of polymetallic nodules, cobalt-rich crusts, and rare earth minerals — assets increasingly critical to the country's clean energy and semiconductor ambitions.