The Ministry of Coal has introduced a streamlined approval framework to accelerate coal and lignite exploration in India. The revised process aims to reduce procedural delays, promote technological advancement, and encourage greater participation from private sector exploration agencies.
Key Reform: Peer Review-Based Approval
Previously, exploration programmes and Geological Reports (GRs) submitted by Notified Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs) required mandatory review and clearance from a government-appointed committee established in January 2022.
Under the new mechanism, if a GR or exploration programme is peer-reviewed by another QCI-NABET accredited APA, it no longer requires committee-level approval. This shift is designed to enhance efficiency and create a more industry-driven workflow within the exploration ecosystem.
Boost to Private Sector and Operational Efficiency
The reform reflects the government’s increased confidence in private sector capabilities in exploration, including:
- Advanced technical expertise
- Modern exploration tools and methodologies
- Improved accuracy in resource assessment
By reducing approval timelines by an estimated three months, the policy is expected to enable faster implementation of coal block development and support allottees in meeting project milestones more efficiently.
Supporting India’s Long-Term Energy Strategy
This updated approval mechanism aligns with India’s broader objective of strengthening energy security through sustainable and technology-driven exploration. The Ministry emphasized its commitment to building a more efficient resource evaluation framework and expanding private participation to support industry growth.
Summary
The Ministry of Coal has simplified the approval process for exploration programmes and Geological Reports by allowing peer review from accredited agencies in place of mandatory committee approval. The change is expected to cut approval timelines by nearly three months, enhance private sector participation, and support faster coal block development as part of India’s long-term energy security strategy.
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