India urges faster development of advanced-stage coal mines

Authorities reviewed progress of 71 mines.

India’s coal ministry told allottees to take necessary steps to operationalise coal blocks that are in advanced stages to boost the government's efforts to enhance domestic production.

In a statement, the ministry said a review of 71 coal blocks was held, which was chaired by the Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal, Smt. Rupinder Brar. These blocks are in various stages of obtaining regulatory clearances and are distributed across nine states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and West Bengal.

“By focusing on these mines, the government aims to maximise domestic resources and reduce dependence on coal imports,” the ministry said.

“The Ministry of Coal remains committed to strengthening India's energy security through increased domestic coal production, supporting the nation's path towards sustainable economic development,” it added.