The Ministry of Coal achieved another significant milestone in its commercial coal mining initiative with the execution of Coal Block Production and Development Agreements (CMDPAs) for three fully explored coal blocks. This development marks a total of 104 coal blocks successfully auctioned since the launch of commercial coal mining by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
The agreements were handed over to the successful bidders, Hindalco Industries Limited and Jhar Mineral Resources Private Limited, by Vikram Dev Dutt, Secretary, Ministry of Coal, and Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary & Nominated Authority. During the occasion, both officials assured the Ministry’s unwavering support and cooperation to ensure the smooth operationalization of these coal blocks. Dutt reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to facilitating projects that will strengthen India’s energy security and drive economic growth.
The coal blocks under this agreement include Meenakshi, Rampia, and Dip Side of Rampia, which collectively have an aggregated Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of ~27.00 Million Tonnes Per Annum (MTPA). These blocks are projected to generate an annual revenue of ~₹2,709.95 crores and create employment opportunities for approximately 36,504 people. A total investment of ~₹4,050 crores will be required to operationalize these blocks fully.
Ongoing 10th Round e-Auctions Progress
The ongoing 10th round of coal block e-auctions saw two blocks successfully auctioned on Day 2. Both blocks are fully explored and have a combined geological reserve of 180.26 million tonnes with a PRC of 2.10 MTPA.
Details of the auctioned blocks are as follows:
| S. No. | Block Name | State | PRC (MTPA) | Geological Reserves (MT) | Successful Bidder | Reserve Price (%) | Final Offer (%) |
| 1 | Bundu | Jharkhand | 1.00 | 102.268 | S M Steels and Power Limited | 4.00 | 16.75 |
| 2 | Gare Palma IV-5 | Chhattisgarh | 1.10 | 77.990 | Sarda Energy and Minerals Limited | 4.00 | 25.75 |
These blocks are estimated to generate an annual revenue of ~₹339.06 crores and attract capital investments of ~₹315.00 crores. They are also expected to create employment for ~2,839 individuals directly and indirectly.
