India Achieves Record Coal Production and Dispatch in December 2024
Between April 1 and December 31, 2024, total coal production from captive and commercial mines reached 131.05 million tons (MT), reflecting a 34.20% increase from 97.665 MT during the same period last year. December 2024 alone saw coal production surge to 18.40 MT, with a daily average production of 0.594 MT, a 30.75% increase compared to December 2023’s daily average of 0.445 MT.
India Steps Up Coal Production and Promotes Domestic Manufacturing
The Indian government has taken several significant steps to boost domestic coal production and reduce reliance on imports. While Rajasthan does not have substantial coal deposits, the government’s focus is on increasing overall domestic production and ensuring energy security for the nation.
India’s Commitment to Sustainable Mining Practices
The adoption of advanced mining technologies like surface mining, continuous mining, and highwall/longwall mining has minimized environmental impact and improved efficiency. By increasing the use of First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects, the government aims to reduce the reliance on road transportation, thereby reducing carbon emissions and air pollution.
India Opens Up Offshore Areas for Mineral Exploration
The Indian government has announced the availability of several offshore blocks for mineral exploration and production. The blocks, spread across the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, are rich in various minerals, including Construction Sand, Lime Mud and Polymetallic Nodules and Crusts.
New Amendments to Rajasthan Minor Mineral Concession Rules
The Mines and Petroleum Department of Rajasthan announced the new Rules are called Rajasthan Minor Mineral Concession (Second Amendment) Rules, 2024
Jharkhand Introduces New District Mineral Foundation Trust Rules
The Government of Jharkhand announced the Jharkhand District Mineral Foundation (Trust) Rules 2024, aimed at addressing the impacts of mining operations on local communities and environments.
Offshore Areas Operating Right Rules, 2024
Offshore areas will only be available for grant of operating rights after being notified in the Official Gazette by the administering authority. The government, government companies, or corporations have the priority to obtain operating rights for reserved offshore areas.
Extension of Public Utility Service Status for Iron Ore Mining
The Central Government has declared that services related to Iron Ore Mining will continue to be recognized as a public utility service for an additional six months.
Enhanced Coal Quality Assurance through Independent Sampling
On July 31, 2024, PIB Delhi reported that to address consumer concerns about coal quality, the Ministry of Coal issued a Standard Operating Procedure for Third Party Sampling and Analysis at the loading point on November 26, 2015.
Draft Western Ghats Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA) Notified
Several activities will be prohibited or regulated within the ESA, including mining, expansion of existing polluting industries, and large-scale construction projects. Existing mining operations will be phased out within five years. However, existing healthcare facilities and repair/extension of residential houses are exempted.
