Delhi, 24 April (H.S.): The Ministry of Coal has taken significant steps to revitalize India’s coal sector by introducing transformative policies that promote underground coal mining. These reforms aim to address challenges such as high capital investment and long gestation periods while aligning with sustainable development goals.

Key measures include the reduction of the floor revenue share from 4% to 2%, providing fiscal relief and enhancing project viability. Additionally, the waiver of mandatory upfront payments removes financial barriers, encouraging private sector participation and faster project execution.

A 50% rebate on performance security for underground coal blocks further lowers entry thresholds. This reform-oriented approach emphasizes a future-ready and innovation-driven coal sector, promoting economic growth, safety, and employment generation. Underground mining is also more environmentally friendly due to its reduced surface disruption compared to opencast operations.

The policy measures aim to unlock underground mining’s potential, foster innovation, lower carbon emissions, and contribute to India’s energy security and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, positioning the Ministry as a catalyst for responsible industrial growth.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar