India’s Ministry of Coal recently held a stakeholders’ consultation on draft mining plan guidelines for coal and lignite blocks on 1 July. The guidelines aim to foster a more sustainable and ethical approach to coal mining.
Twenty-five coal and lignite mining companies participated in the event.
Additional Secretary Shri M. Nagaraju highlighted the ministry’s dedication to enhancing the regulatory framework governing coal and lignite mining. He emphasized the importance of balancing flexibility for coal mine owners with heightened responsibility and accountability.
The new guidelines emphasize responsible mining practices that support industry growth while prioritising ecosystem preservation. Key elements include the mandatory inclusion of restoration, remediation and regeneration measures in mining plans to ensure sustainable natural resource management. These measures aim to minimise environmental impacts, address community concerns, and promote continuous improvement in water quality monitoring.
“By raising accountability standards and optimizing extraction techniques, the Ministry of Coal seeks to align the interests of all parties, advancing sustainable development within the sector,” the agency said.
“The stakeholders’ consultation provided a platform for in-depth discussions and feedback from industry leaders and experts, setting the stage for a comprehensive regulatory framework that addresses contemporary challenges and aligns with global best practices in mining governance.”
Source: Government of India