Ministry of Coal launched the 13th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auctions on 21 August 2025. India crosses 1 billion tonnes coal production milestone with 14 new coal blocks, ₹41,600+ crore investment, 3.5 lakh jobs and coal gasification projects.
Main Highlights in Hinglish
Coal’s 13th Round of Commercial Auctions launched on 21 August 2025 in New Delhi, Ministry of Coal successfully launched the 13th round of commercial coal mine auctions. Chief Guest of this event is the Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy, and Guest of Honor the Minister of State, Satish Chandra Dubey.
Happiness on 1 Billion Tonnes Coal Production
Shri Reddy said in his keynote speech that India has crossed 1 billion tonnes of coal production in FY 2025—this is a historic milestone, and is proof of the reforms of 2015 under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi: transparent auctions, private sector participation, and modernization.
Atmanirbhar Bharat and role of private sector
Since 2015, 134 mines were auctioned in a total of 12 rounds, investments more than ₹41,600 crore were brought in and more than 3.5 lakh jobs were created. In the 13th round, 14 new coal blocks were introduced, which will help in reducing imports and saving foreign exchange. Along with transparency, competition has also increased, due to which both PSUs and private firms are getting a boost in efficiency and competitiveness.
Coal gasification and cleaner energy
Shri Reddy said that more than 40% of coal reserves (about 370 billion tonnes) are deep underground and cannot be extracted using traditional methods. That is why the focus is on Underground Coal Gasification (UCG)—this technology converts coal into syngas underground, which reduces surface disturbance, reduces environmental footprint, and uses sustainable energy.
Incentives and ease of doing business
Successful bidders have been given incentives that will benefit them if they start production before the scheduled time. The Ministry is committed to fast-tracking clearances, removing bottlenecks and improving ease of doing business. It is seen that coal demand will increase further, so there is a need to plan and enhance production.
Vision: Reform, Perform, Transform
Under PM Modi’s vision of “Reform, Perform, Transform”, the Ministry is bringing in reforms to ensure efficiency, transparency, long-term sustainability. Constructive suggestions are also being taken from stakeholders for sector growth.
Community welfare and sustainability
Community development and local welfare are also being given importance in coal mining. Investing in coal equals investing in India’s future—this sector promises not just energy security but also long-term growth and sustainable development.
Remarks by MoS Satish Chandra Dubey
He said: After crossing 1 billion tonnes production, the 13th round of energy is a strong step towards self-sufficiency. Transparent auctions, industry-friendly policies and private participation will boost production, investment and employment. Sustainable development (efficient mine closure, tree plantation through “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam”, community livelihoods) is also in focus. Ease of doing business is aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Secretary Shri Vikram Dev Dutt ki Baat
He gave an overview of sector transformation—from the 2015 CMSP Act to the introduction of commercial coal mining in 2020. Fast mine operationalization, streamlined clearances, better logistics (in coordination with MoEF&CC, Railways, State Govts) were highlighted.
Also underscored the strategic importance of coal gasification—producing syngas, using it in fertilizers and petrochemicals, reducing emissions. The Ministry announced a ₹8,500 crore incentive scheme for coal gasification, in which 7 projects have been selected. Environmental sustainability (afforestation, mine rehabilitation, clean mining) is also getting priority.
Welcome address by Additional Secretary Ms. Rupinder Brar
He spoke about how commercial coal mining is bringing a new impact—opportunities are being unlocked for private players, competition is being fostered. UCG is a pioneering technology that facilitates energy access with a lower footprint and minimal surface disturbance. Access to deep reserves is being made possible. The launch is expanding investment opportunities, promoting responsible mining, and reinforcing transparency and private participation.
Auction details
In this 13th round, 4 mines are being offered under CMSP Act, 2015 and 10 mines under MMDR Act, 1957. Of these, 10 are fully explored, which are ready for immediate development; and 4 partially explored, which have longer-term investment options. 3 previous mines of the past auction are also included. Mines are in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
Calculation
Ministry of Coal launched the 13th round of commercial coal mine auctions on 21 August 2025, which includes 14 coal blocks. India crossed 1 billion tonnes production milestone in FY 2025. The ministry is focusing on reforms, private sector participation, transparency and coal gasification (UCG). 7 UCG projects have been selected from the ₹8,500 crore incentive scheme. Sustainability (afforestation, mine rehabilitation), community welfare, and ease of doing business are also priorities. Mines are in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and MP—10 fully explored, 4 partially, plus 3 previous ones.
FAQ’s
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When was the 13th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auctions launched?
This auction was launched on 21 August 2025 in New Delhi, by the Ministry of Coal.
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How many coal blocks have been offered in this auction?
Total 14 coal blocks have been offered—10 fully explored and 4 partially explored.
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How much investment and jobs have been created in the coal sector so far?
From 2015 till now, 134 mines have been auctioned in which more than ₹41,600 crore was invested and more than 3.5 lakh jobs were created.
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What is the role of Coal gasification (UCG)?
Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) is a modern technique in which coal is converted into syngas underground. This reduces the environmental footprint and makes clean energy production possible.
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In which states are these mines located?
The mines to be auctioned in the 13th round are located in Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
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Can private companies also participate?
Yes, private sector participation is allowed after the 2015 reforms, which has increased both competition and transparency.
