Union Coal & Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the Namchik-Namphuk coal mine in Changlang district on Monday, marking the state’s first commercial coal mining project.

The ceremony included a ‘bhumi pujan’, a tree plantation drive, and the handover of the mining lease along with the flagging off of tools and machinery by Coal Projects (CPPL), officially commencing mining operations.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Reddy called the launch “a symbol of new hope and a significant step towards energy security and regional development in the Northeast,” noting the coal block holds 10.5 million tonnes of coal reserves.

Chief Minister Khandu highlighted the project’s potential to boost the state economy, create employment opportunities, and generate steady revenue. He expressed confidence that the initiative would empower local communities and attract future investments in Arunachal Pradesh’s mining and industrial sectors.

The Namchik-Namphuk coal mine is expected to drive regional development, enhance India’s energy security, and contribute to the nation’s self-reliance, while opening a new chapter in Arunachal Pradesh’s economic journey.

Originally allocated in 2003, the coal block faced delays but was revived through an auction in 2022, allowing participation by private players and paving the way for this historic commercial launch.

News source: The Arunachal Times