The Union Ministry of Coal has executed Coal Mine Development and Production Agreements (CMDPAs) with Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) for three commercial coal blocks — Dhulia North, Mandakini B and Pirpainti Barahat — auctioned under the 13th round of commercial coal mine auctions.

The signing marks a key milestone in India’s drive towards coal self-reliance. All three mines are fully explored and together offer a cumulative peak rated capacity of 49 million tonnes per annum, underlining their importance in supporting the country’s rising energy demand.

The projects are estimated to generate annual revenue of about Rs 46.21 billion and attract capital investment of nearly Rs 73.5 billion, providing a strong push to industrial and economic activity. In addition, the development of these blocks is expected to create close to 66,248 direct and indirect jobs, delivering significant socio-economic benefits in coal-bearing regions.

The Coal Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to increasing domestic production through a transparent and competitive auction regime aimed at strengthening long-term energy security and promoting inclusive growth under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

DVC has also been expanding its thermal power capacity at Durgapur (West Burdwan), Mejia (Bankura) and Raghunathpur (Purulia) in West Bengal, along with projects in Jharkhand, to support rising electricity demand.