Coal Ministry Signs Mine Deals

11 Apr 2025 CW Team

The Ministry of Coal has signed Coal Mine Development and Production Agreements (CMDPAs) for two commercial coal blocks, aiming to enhance domestic production and reduce dependency on imports. The agreements are expected to generate an estimated annual revenue of Rs 1.06 bn once the mines are fully operational.

These blocks were awarded to private entities through a transparent auction process, encouraging increased private sector involvement in India’s coal sector. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader push for self-reliance in energy and boosting economic activity through resource monetization. Both coal blocks are located in mineral-rich states and collectively hold substantial reserves. Their development is expected to not only improve coal availability for key industries like power and steel but also create employment opportunities in the surrounding regions. The CMDPAs outline detailed responsibilities for mine development, timelines, and environmental compliance, ensuring that operations proceed efficiently and sustainably. With these new allocations, the Coal Ministry reinforces its commitment to unlocking the sector’s potential and supporting India’s growing energy demands.

These agreements are part of ongoing efforts to attract investments, modernise mining operations, and achieve the target of one billion tonnes of coal production annually in the coming years.

Infrastructure Transport

18 Dec 2025

RVNL secures Rs 1.65 billion railway bridge project from North Eastern Railway

Rail Vikas Nigam (RVNL) has received a Letter of Award (LoA) from North Eastern Railway for a Rs 1.65 billion railway infrastructure project, strengthening its order book and showcasing its expertise in complex railway construction.The project involves constructing the substructure of a major railway bridge over the Gandak River, located between Paniyahwa and Valmikinagar stations. This is part of the doubling of the Gorakhpur Cantt–Valmikinagar railway section, aimed at improving line capacity and operational efficiency.The bridge will feature 14 spans of 61 metres each, built on double D-t..

Raebareli’s Modern Coach Factory rolls out 15,000th railway coach

The Modern Coach Factory (MCF) at Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh has achieved a major manufacturing milestone with the rollout of its 15,000th railway coach on December 15, the Ministry of Railways said.In a press note, the ministry said that MCF has already produced 1,310 coaches in the current financial year 2025–26, reflecting sustained high output at one of Indian Railways’ most advanced passenger coach manufacturing units.Established in 2007 at Lalganj in Raebareli district, MCF was built at a cost of Rs 31.92 billion with an initial annual production capacity of 1,000 coaches. The factor..

RailTel wins Rs 260.88 million IT infrastructure order from VOC Port

Navratna public sector undertaking RailTel Corporation of India has secured an IT infrastructure order worth Rs 260.88 million from V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC Port), strengthening its presence in port-led digital transformation projects.According to an exchange filing dated December 16, 2025, RailTel has received a Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from VOC Port Authority for the implementation of advanced IT infrastructure at the port. The project is domestic in nature and is scheduled to be completed by August 15, 2026.The company said the order has been awarded in the normal course of ..