REFORMS IN COAL SECTOR

The Ministry of Coal reports that over the past five years the Government has undertaken structural and procedural reforms to make coal allocation and mining more transparent, efficient and scientific. Key measures include shifting to open competitive auctions with a revenue‑share model and the National Coal Index, opening commercial coal mining without eligibility constraints and allowing 100 % FDI, and simplifying coal linkage allocation through the SHAKTI and CoalSETU windows. Efficiency‑enhancing steps comprise the Single Window Clearance System (PARIVESH 2.0), accreditation of 44 private prospecting agencies, and the Mine Developer‑Operator mode. Technological upgrades feature the Koyla Shakti Dashboard, AI‑driven command centres, and initiatives for coal washing, gasification, renewable energy integration and an Integrated Coal Logistics Plan.