India’s coal sector is taking another decisive step toward modernization and self-reliance. The Ministry of Coal is set to launch the 14th round of commercial coal mine auctions in New Delhi today, marking a key milestone in the government’s ongoing drive to reform and digitize the industry.
This brings together a diverse mix of fully and partially explored coal blocks, opening doors for established companies, new entrants, and technology-driven mining firms to participate.
In a major first, the auction framework now includes provisions for Underground Coal Gasification, a technology that allows energy extraction from deep, untapped coal seams. The approach promises to curb import dependence and attract fresh investment into cleaner, more efficient energy practices.
The Ministry is also rolling out two new digital platforms to make coal mining more transparent and responsive. The “Coal Land Acquisition, Management, and Payment (CLAMP)” portal will simplify processes around land acquisition, compensation, and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the “Koyla Shakti” dashboard will offer a real-time, integrated view of the entire coal value chain, from exploration to production and logistics.
