(1) The Central Government may, by notification in the Official Gazette, make rules for the grant of prospecting licences or mining leases in respect of any minerals underlying the ocean within the territorial waters or the continental shelf of India.
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing power, such rules may provide for all or any of the following matters, namely :-
(a) the conditions, limitations and restrictions subject to which such prospecting licences or mining leases may be granted;
(b) regulation of exploration and exploitation of minerals within the territorial waters or the continental shelf of India;
(c) ensuring that such exploration or exploitation does not interfere with navigation; and
(d) any other matter which is required to be, or may be, prescribed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1 Substituted by M M (R D) Amendment Act, 1999, vide G.O.I. Ext. Part II, Section 1, No. 51, dated 20.12.99 (No. 38 of 1999).
16 [Sections 5 to 13] not to apply to minor minerals.
14. The provisions of sections 5 to 13 (inclusive) shall not apply to quarry leases, mining leases or other mineral concessions in respect of minor minerals.
Power of State Governments to make rules in respect of minor minerals