New Delhi: On Thursday, G. Kishan Reddy, the Union Minister of Coal and Mines, inaugurated the 11th round of Commercial Coal Mine auctions, offering a total of 27 coal blocks in New Delhi.
These coal blocks are located in the states of Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, comprising both fully explored and partially explored mines, including one coking coal mine, as stated in a press release from the Ministry of Coal.
Additionally, the Ministry has finalized nine agreements with the successful bidders from the 10th round of auctions. Once operational, these mines are projected to generate an annual revenue of Rs 1,446 crores based on the PRC of the coal mines and are expected to create approximately 19,000 jobs, according to the release.
The Ministry of Coal has implemented a series of reforms aimed at accelerating the growth of the coal sector to meet the energy demands of the country. For this 11th round, mines located in protected areas, wildlife sanctuaries, critical habitats, regions with over 40 percent forest cover, and heavily developed areas have been excluded. The boundaries of certain coal mines have been adjusted to enhance their appeal, particularly in areas with dense populations, significant green cover, or critical infrastructure, the release noted.
In his address, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy underscored the vital role of coal in India's energy framework, stating that power generation would be inconceivable without it. He pointed out the significant benefits of coal block auctions in achieving energy security, promoting self-sufficiency, and decreasing reliance on imports. He encouraged industry stakeholders to actively engage in the 11th round of auctions, calling for a united effort to fulfill the vision of an energy-independent Aatmanirbhar Bharat, as outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the release concluded.
Today, we are observing the significant reforms introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coal sector. This financial year, we anticipate coal production to reach 1,080 metric tonnes. Some steel companies are currently utilizing imported coal, and we encourage them to shift towards domestic sources. Our objective is to maximize the use of coal produced within the country, stated the Union Minister during a press briefing.
Union Minister Reddy emphasized the Government's commitment to enhancing domestic coal production to satisfy the country's energy requirements. He also highlighted the Government's focus on supporting local communities, noting that coal auctions and mining initiatives are not solely about economic advancement.
The Government aims to empower these communities by generating job opportunities, improving infrastructure, and advancing education and healthcare in coal-producing areas. Reddy expressed optimism that these reforms would establish India as a global frontrunner in sustainable mining practices while ensuring energy security, as stated in the release.
