The ministry of coal has launched the Mine Opening Permission module on the Single Window Clearance System (SWCS) portal, aiming to expedite the approval process for opening coal mines. Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt inaugurated the module, which is expected to enhance efficiency, promote transparency, and reduce processing times for mine approvals. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a digitally enabled economy and a self-reliant India, offering a streamlined approach to obtaining mine opening permissions. The new module allows applicants to submit requests online and track them in real-time, eliminating the need for manual paperwork. The SWCS portal, launched in January 2021, is designed to consolidate all necessary clearances for operationalizing coal mines. The new mine opening permission module supports this system by enabling faster decisions, which the ministry said would promote an investment-friendly environment and support India's energy security. The ministry noted that the digital transformation of mine approval processes is expected to accelerate coal production, contributing to the country’s energy requirements and fostering growth in the coal sector.
