New Delhi: The Ministry of Coal on Wednesday launched the 14th round of commercial coal mine auctions, marking another milestone in India’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency and sustainable growth.
So far, the ministry has successfully auctioned 133 coal mines across 12 rounds, with a peak rated capacity (PRC) of around 276 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). In this 14th round, 41 coal mines are being offered — 20 fully explored and 21 partially explored — including five mines under the CMSP Act, 2015 and 36 under the MMDR Act, 1957.
Notably, for the first time, provisions for underground coal gasification (UCG) have been introduced, demonstrating the ministry’s commitment to innovation and sustainable coal utilization. Of the 41 mines, 21 possess UCG potential, opening new opportunities for the gasification of deep-seated coal reserves.
Delivering the keynote address, Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy described the 14th round as a “defining moment” in India’s pursuit of energy independence, reinforcing the government’s focus on energy security and sustainable industrial growth.
Highlighting UCG as a key innovation, he added that pilot UCG projects have been exempted from environmental clearance to ensure faster implementation through coordinated efforts across ministries.
Vikram Dev Dutt, secretary, Ministry of Coal, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to accelerating reforms, enhancing transparency, and promoting digital integration for efficiency and sustainability. He noted that identified UCG-suitable blocks hold immense potential for cleaner coal utilization.
The launch reaffirms the ministry’s vision to build a transparent, technology-driven, and self-reliant coal ecosystem supporting India’s sustainable energy future.