Application for prospecting licences or mining leases.

(1) An application for a reconnaissance permit, prospecting licence or mining lease in respect of any land in which the minerals vest in the Government shall be made to the State Government concerned in the prescribed form and shall be accompanied by the prescribed fee.

(2) Where an application is received under sub-section (1), there shall be sent to the applicant an acknowledgement of its receipt within the prescribed time and in the prescribed form.

(3) On receipt of an application under this section, the State Government may, having regard to the provisions of this Act and any rules made thereunder, grant or refuse to grant the permit, licence or lease.