MECL signed MoU with DMG, Goa

Current Context: The Mineral Exploration Agency under the Ministry of Mines named Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd (MECL) signed MoU with the Directorate of Mines & Geology (DMG), Goa.

• The MoU was signed to explore iron ore reserves in Goa state.
• The MoU will allow MECL to assess and examine mineral resources in Goa. The MECL will conduct Geo-Scientific exploration activities for the assessment and examination of mineral resources. The MoU will also allow MECL to finalize the mineral blocks to be auctioned and establish the state’s mineral inventory.
• Goa is having large deposits of Iron Ore of about 1,456 Million Tonnes, and other major minerals like Bauxite (55 Million Tonnes) and Manganese Ore (34 Million Tonnes). Also, the state has a logistic environment for the export of minerals due to the availability of ports near the mining site.
• The MoU and the iron ore mining activities in the state will lead to increase employment opportunities and regional income in the state.
• Recently, the government has made amendments to the MMDR Act 2021. Due to the MMDR Amendment Act 2021, Mineral (Auction) Second Amendment Rules, 2021 and Minerals (Evidence of Mineral Contents) Amendment Rules, the states are allowed to boost up and track the auction process of mineral acreages.
• Static Part: 
• HQ of MECL: Nagpur, Maharashtra
• HQ of DMG: Panaji, Goa

Question: 

Q.1 Which entity signed MoU with the Directorate of Mines & Geology (DMG), Goa to explore iron ore reserves in the state?
a. National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC)
b. Hindustan Copper Ltd
c. Sesa Goa Iron Ore
d. Mineral Exploration Corporation Ltd (MECL)