The Ministry of Coal has initiated the 14th round of commercial coal mine auctions under the liberalised framework of the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015 and the Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, using digital portals KOYLA SHAKTI portal and CLAMP portal for bidding, allocation and monitoring.
This tranche spans coal blocks across key states, including Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. The terms feature reduced upfront payments, adjustment of upfront amount against royalty, liberalised efficiency parameters and 100 % foreign direct investment (FDI) permitted.
Also Read: PESB recommends B Sairam as next Chairman of Coal India
The auction regime, which began the commercial mining pathway in June 2020, has already seen over 134 mines allotted across previous rounds, marking a shift from captive-use only to full commercial sale of coal.
The ministry noted that successful bidders will be required to commence production promptly to avail incentives, and clearances relating to the environment and forests are being prioritised to expedite operationalisation of mines.
