The Ministry of Coal has revised and simplified the approval process for exploration programmes and geological reports for coal and lignite blocks, in a move aimed at improving ease of doing business and accelerating sustainable resource development.

Under the new system, approvals will no longer require clearance from the government panel established in 2022. Instead, the Ministry has streamlined the mechanism to allow exploration programmes and Geological Reports prepared by Notified Accredited Prospecting Agencies accredited by QCI–NABET, and peer-reviewed by another such agency, to be processed more efficiently.

The Ministry noted that India’s growing energy needs require quicker, more technologically advanced and robust exploration across coal and lignite resources. To support this national priority, reforms continue to focus on enhancing transparency, strengthening private-sector participation and improving overall energy readiness.

The latest reform expands the role of private Accredited Prospecting Agencies, signalling the Government’s confidence in their technical capabilities, operational efficiency and capacity for innovation. The approach aims to leverage private expertise while ensuring strict transparency and adherence to high technical standards, thereby supporting the sustainable development of the country’s coal reserves.