The Magadh and Amrapali coal mines in Jharkhand are playing a pivotal role in strengthening India’s energy security, contributing nearly half of Central Coalfields Limited’s total coal production in 2024–25. Both mines support the broader goal of ensuring steady coal availability for the power sector under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Magadh has estimated mineable reserves of 854.91 million tonnes, while Amrapali holds 456.34 million tonne. For FY 2025–26, the two are expected to generate net sales revenues of Rs 28.12 billion and Rs 23.67 billion respectively. Local development remains a major focus, with employment already approved for 808 people in the Magadh–Sanghmitra region and 210 individuals in the Amrapali–Chandragupt area.

In the Northeast, the Namchik Namphuk Coal Mine is set to contribute about 0.2 million tonnes of coal annually, enhancing Arunachal Pradesh’s energy reliability. With geological reserves of 14.97 million tonnes, the mine is projected to generate Rs 1.73 billion in annual revenue and provide employment for around 270 people.

Alongside production, the sector is advancing sustainability through Mission GREEN (Grow, Restore, Enrich and Empower Nature) Coal Regions. Coal India, NLC India and Singareni Collieries Company are implementing long-term ecological and community-centric initiatives across coal and lignite belts. The five-year vision includes large-scale afforestation, ecological restoration of post-mining areas, renewable energy promotion, sustainable mine-water use and circular resource management. New initiatives such as mine tourism and green-economy models aim to diversify local livelihoods. The Mission places strong emphasis on community involvement, including the engagement of self-help groups in development activities. A dedicated monitoring committee set up by the Ministry of Coal oversees the implementation process.

Together, the three mines in Jharkhand and Arunachal Pradesh support India’s self-reliance by reducing dependence on imported coal and fostering economic development through improved infrastructure, logistics and employment generation.

News source: PIB