Graphite block acquisition: CIL ventures into non-coal minerals

23 Jul 2024 CW Team

In a significant expansion of its mining activities, Coal India Limited (CIL) has ventured into graphite mining by becoming the preferred bidder for the Khattali Chotti graphite block located in Alirajpur district of Madhya Pradesh. This move marks CIL's entry into non-coal mineral mining, aligning with its diversification strategy. The announcement came after the company won the bid at the tranche two forward auction organized by the Ministry of Mines on July 9. CIL has committed to a mining premium of 150.05% over the value of the mineral despatched, which will be paid to the state government of Madhya Pradesh. The firm will officially receive the letter of intent once it completes the necessary formalities, including the deposition of performance security. Subsequently, a composite license is expected to be issued within a year, adhering to the timeline stipulated in the National Invitation to Tender (NIT). The decision to bid for the graphite block is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Mines to diversify India's mineral production and reduce import dependency. Graphite is crucial for various industrial applications, particularly in manufacturing lithium-ion batteries, which are pivotal for the burgeoning electric vehicle market and energy storage systems. India currently imports about 69% of its graphite requirements, spanning natural, synthetic, and end-use products. With limited players in the graphite mining industry, CIL's entry could catalyze significant developments in this sector. The Khattali Chotti block, which spans nearly 600 hectares, has shown potential with fixed carbon content ranging from 1.99% to 6.50% based on initial bedrock samples. By leveraging its extensive mining experience, CIL is poised to contribute to India?s green energy transition. The company's move into graphite mining is timely, given the projected increase in the market demand for graphite, which is expected to surge by 25%-27% annually by FY 2035.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..