Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) has secured the highest number of five-star rated mines among all coal companies in the Ministry of Coal (MoC) star rating assessment for the financial year 2024-25, with seven mines conferred the top rating. The outcome was presented as validation of the company's commitment to safe, scientific and sustainable mining practices. The result positions WCL ahead of peer companies in the national evaluation. The seven five-star rated mines include Patansaongi underground mine of Nagpur Area, Nandgaon Incline underground mine of Chandrapur Area, Saoner Mine Number one underground and Saoner Mine Number two underground of Nagpur Area, Makardhokda-I opencast mine and Dinesh/MKD-III opencast mine of Umred Area, and Mungoli opencast mine of Wani Area. The citation noted operational excellence and adherence to statutory norms across the listed units. Further reinforcing WCL's performance, 25 mines received four-star ratings while 15 mines obtained three-star ratings under the same assessment. The chairman-cum-managing director described the achievement as the result of collective dedication and professionalism of employees and stakeholders and indicated that safe and responsible mining remains the foremost priority. He added that the company intends to continue adopting modern technologies and sustainable practices to improve performance and support the nation's energy security. The MoC star rating system assesses coal mines on parameters such as scientific and safe mining practices, environmental management, land reclamation and rehabilitation, adoption of modern technologies, occupational health and safety, statutory compliance, social responsibility and operational efficiency. The framework is intended to serve as a benchmark for promoting responsible mining and encouraging continuous improvement across the sector. The seven five-star mines were reported to have shown exceptional performance in safety, environmental stewardship, resource management and employee welfare. The recognition was framed as reflecting WCL's sustained efforts to foster a culture of safety and operational excellence while maintaining high standards of environmental and social responsibility.