The Ministry of Coal successfully hosted a roadshow on ‘Commercial Coal Mine Auctions and Opportunities in the Coal Sector’ in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, bringing together key stakeholders from the government, coal industry, and private sector. The event was graced by Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, as the Chief Guest, alongside Additional Secretary & Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal, Ms. Rupinder Brar, and senior officials. The roadshow forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to engage with potential investors, highlight commercial coal mining opportunities, and reinforce India’s commitment to energy security and self-reliance.

In her welcome address, Ms. Rupinder Brar emphasised the pivotal role of commercial coal mining in shaping India’s energy future. She reaffirmed that coal remains an essential pillar of India’s energy security, driving industrial expansion and ensuring an uninterrupted power supply. She further noted that the Ministry is actively fostering an enabling environment for private sector participation by streamlining regulatory processes, offering financial incentives, and enhancing the ease of doing business. A special mention was made of the Single Window Clearance System, which has significantly expedited approvals and provided a level playing field for all stakeholders.

Ms. Brar also highlighted the series of roadshows from Kolkata to Mumbai to Ahmedabad, which have provided investors with critical insights into the auction framework and policy landscape. She reiterated the government’s commitment to transparent and investor-friendly policies while promoting advanced mining technologies, coal gasification, and sustainable mining practices.

Delivering the keynote address, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey underscored the government’s resolve to strengthen the coal sector through progressive policy measures. He described commercial mining as a transformative initiative that opens new avenues for private sector participation and reduces India’s dependence on coal imports. Aligning with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Shri Dubey assured stakeholders of a steady and sustainable coal supply to industries, contributing to economic growth and national energy security.

He further emphasised the Ministry’s unwavering focus on mineworker safety, community welfare, and regional development. He highlighted that coal mining should not only fuel industrial expansion but also uplift local communities through employment generation, skill development, and social infrastructure projects. Additionally, he reiterated the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability, ensuring that coal-mining operations adhere to stringent environmental norms, adopt progressive land reclamation practices, and leverage initiatives like coal gasification to reduce carbon emissions.

The event also featured an interactive Q&A session, allowing industry representatives to directly engage with government officials. Discussions revolved around policy frameworks, investment incentives, and operational aspects of commercial coal mining, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to fostering a transparent and business-friendly environment.

Looking ahead, the coal industry is poised for sustained growth, driven by policy reforms, technological advancements, and a push for self-sufficiency. With increasing private sector participation and innovation-led initiatives, India is set to strengthen its position as a global leader in coal mining. Balancing economic progress with environmental responsibility, the Ministry of Coal continues to focus on sustainability, efficiency, and inclusive development, ensuring that the sector remains a cornerstone of the nation’s industrial and energy landscape.