Expansion of Coal Mines Approved Amid Oil Drilling in Northeast

09 Feb 2024 CW Team

The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has granted clearance for the expansion of coal mines in four states, raising concerns about environmental impact and land use. This decision comes amid ongoing efforts to boost coal production and address energy demands. The FAC, in its recent meeting, approved proposals for expanding coal mining activities in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Odisha.

While proponents argue that the expansion will stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities, environmentalists warn of adverse effects on local ecosystems and communities. Additionally, the committee has given the green light for oil drilling in the Northeast region, signaling further development in the energy sector.

The decision to allow drilling for oil in the Northeast raises questions about its potential impact on the environment and indigenous communities. Critics argue that such projects could disrupt fragile ecosystems and traditional ways of life, exacerbating environmental degradation and social tensions. As the government pushes for increased energy production and resource extraction, it faces growing scrutiny over the environmental and social consequences of these initiatives. Balancing economic development with environmental sustainability remains a key challenge for policymakers, as they navigate the complexities of energy security and environmental conservation.

Infrastructure Energy

14 Oct 2025

Mizoram To Build Rs 139 Billion Pumped Storage Power Plant

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Friday announced plans to construct a 2,400 MW pumped storage hydroelectric power plant in Hnahthial district, marking a major step towards achieving energy self-sufficiency in the state. Addressing the Mizo Students’ Union general conference in Hnahthial town, the Chief Minister said the plant would be developed across the Darzo Nallah, a tributary of the Tuipui river. Once operational, the project is expected to play a pivotal role in meeting Mizoram’s rising electricity demand and reducing dependence on imported power. Officials from the State Power..

Centre Plans Nationwide Opening Of Power Retail Market

India is preparing to open up its retail electricity market to private companies nationwide, effectively ending the long-standing monopoly of state-run power distributors in most regions, according to a draft bill released by the Union Power Ministry on Friday. The move will enable major private sector players — including Adani Enterprises, Tata Power, Torrent Power, and CESC — to expand their presence across the country’s electricity distribution landscape. A similar reform attempt in 2022 had faced strong opposition from state-run distribution companies (discoms), which currently dom..

CEA Sets 100 GW Nuclear Target For India By 2047

In a landmark step marking its 52nd Foundation Day, the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) unveiled an ambitious roadmap to develop 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power capacity by 2047, aligning with India’s long-term Net-Zero commitment and energy security objectives. The event, held at the Central Water Commission auditorium in New Delhi’s R.K. Puram, was attended by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Power, who served as the Chief Guest. The roadmap sets out a detailed plan to expand India’s nuclear capacity from its current level of approximately 8,180 MW as of early 2025, outl..