The Ministry of Coal has expanded the pool of authorised prospecting agencies to accelerate the exploration and early operationalisation of coal mines. Under the provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, 18 private agencies accredited by QCI-NABET were recently notified as Accredited Prospecting Agencies. The move provides coal block allottees with greater flexibility in appointing exploration partners and eliminates the earlier requirement for agencies to obtain a separate prospecting licence, a process that typically added around six months to project timelines. With exploration and geological reporting forming the foundation for mine development, the wider pool of agencies is expected to speed up pre-operational activities across the sector. According to the Ministry, expanding authorised participation will allow the coal ecosystem to draw on private-sector efficiency, technology, and competitiveness. The initiative is intended to quicken the pace of exploration and boost the availability of coal and lignite, supporting India’s growing energy needs. The Government has reiterated its commitment to building a transparent and future-ready mineral exploration framework that strengthens energy security and supports long-term economic growth.