The Centre is exploring a special framework to enable scientific coal mining in Meghalaya, the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma told the state Assembly during a short-duration discussion initiated by VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit. He noted that the Supreme Court has lifted the blanket ban on coal mining provided operations comply with legal requirements and environmental norms. The move is being considered to transition the state away from hazardous rat-hole practices while balancing local livelihoods and regulatory obligations.

Coal mining in Meghalaya has faced legal and operational restrictions since 2014 when the National Green Tribunal prohibited transportation and unscientific rat-hole extraction methods. The Supreme Court overturned that ban in 2019 and permitted scientific mining approaches under judicial and regulatory oversight. Sangma indicated that the proposed framework aims to address practical challenges in applying such methods across the state.

The state government continues to contend with the legacy of informal operations, difficult terrain and the need for strict safety protocols, all of which complicate efforts to introduce mechanised, regulated mining. Officials have emphasised the importance of environmental safeguards, worker safety measures and community engagement as part of any new regime. Technical capacity, monitoring mechanisms and clear compliance pathways are being discussed as essential elements of the proposed arrangement.

Sangma said the Centre and the state are in dialogue to develop rules that reconcile conservation concerns with economic realities and that any framework will have to align with existing laws and court directions. The Assembly exchange underlined the sensitivity of mining policy in Meghalaya and the requirement for coordinated implementation across agencies. Further consultations with stakeholders and regulators are expected as authorities work towards operationalising a scientific mining model. Officials indicated that timelines and implementation details will be worked out in consultation with legal and technical experts.