The central government has signed the first commercial agreements to develop coal mines under the underground coal gasification framework, marking a significant policy milestone for domestic energy supply. The agreements formalise roles for the nodal ministry, selected developers and state agencies and set out contractual obligations, compliance requirements and revenue arrangements. Officials described the step as intended to unlock stranded coal reserves and to diversify fuel sources while maintaining regulatory oversight and environmental safeguards.

The framework adopts a phased approach to deployment with initial projects focused on technical validation, environmental monitoring and community engagement. Developers are required to submit detailed site plans, groundwater protection measures and monitoring protocols before operations commence. The government will retain authority to enforce compliance and to suspend activity if safeguards are not met, and will publish reports on environmental performance and project milestones to ensure transparency.

Officials said the framework is expected to stimulate investment in complementary technology, create local employment opportunities and support feedstock supplies for domestic gas and chemicals sectors. The move is presented as part of a wider strategy to improve energy security and to reduce dependence on imported fuels, while testing commercial viability of the underground coal gasification process at scale. Stakeholders will assess outcomes from early projects before further roll out.

Next steps include final regulatory clearances, mobilisation of resources by contracting parties and the commencement of baseline environmental studies at selected locations. The ministry will coordinate with state governments and independent monitors to oversee implementation and to address community concerns. Depending on early results, the programme may be expanded to additional sites to support industrial demand and strategic reserves.