State-owned NLC India is working towards beginning the mining operations at the Machhakata coal block in Odisha ahead of schedule. This coal block, which is the second commercial one and the largest among NLCIL?s mining projects, was secured by NLCIL as the successful bidder during the commercial coal block e-auction held in July.

The Machhakata coal block, which has reserves of 1.4 billion tonne with an average grade of G10-G11 and a capacity of 30 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), is anticipated to rank among the top five largest mines in the country, according to NLCIL?s statement.

The statement also noted that NLCIL aims to start mining ahead of the planned schedule, marking a significant milestone towards achieving its Corporate Plan 2030. The vesting order for the Machhakata coal block was issued.

The company had previously stated its commitment to increasing its capacity in alignment with its vision to surpass 100 MTPA by 2030, up from the current 50 MTPA.

NLC India's primary business focuses on mining and power generation.

In related news, on Monday, the coal ministry executed the Coal Mining Development and Production Agreements for three coal mines that were auctioned. The agreements pertain to the Machhakata (Revised) coal mine, the Kudanali Lubri coal mine, and the Sakhigopal-B Kakurhi coal mine. The successful bidders for these mines are NLC India, Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd, and Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Limited, respectively.