Context:
Ministry of Coal released Draft Mining Plan Guidelines for Coal and Lignite blocks 2024.
In News:
- These guidelines aim to foster a more sustainable and ethical approach to coal mining.
- Primary objective – To optimize coal resource extraction through sustainable practices that minimize waste and enhance operational efficiency.
Key highlights:
- All coal/lignite blocks shall have a mining plan approved by competent authority.
- Calendar plan flexibility to allow increased annual coal production.
- Preference for blast-free and continuous coal-cutting technologies in mining methods.
- Implementation of Safety Management Plans as per Coal Mines Regulations, 2017 including mandatory safety audits.
- Integration of fly ash filling protocols into mining plans.
- Mandatory preparation of Mine Closure Plans for abandoned or discontinued mines post-2009.
Coal Controller Organization:
- Has been delegated with power of processing, scrutiny and approval of mining plan.
- HQ – New Delhi
- Ministry – Ministry of Coal
- Functions –
- Major source of Coal Statistics in Government of India
- Monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks.
- Hears any objection to Government’s notification relating to acquisition of coal-bearing areas.
Coal sector in India:
- Coal is the most important and abundant fossil fuel in India.
- It accounts for 55% of the country’s energy need.
- India – 5th largest coal reserves globally; 2nd largest consumer of coal.
- Major coal producing states – Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra & West Bengal.
- Ministry of Coal launched commercial coal mining in 2020.
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
What is/are the purpose/purposes of ‘District Mineral Foundations’ in India?
- Promoting mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts
- Protecting the interests of the persons affected by mining operations
- Authorizing State Governments to issue licences for mineral exploration
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
It does not promote mineral exploration activities in mineral-rich districts. It does not authorize states to issue a licence for mineral exploration.
