The Ministry of Coal introduced a simplified approval mechanism on 1 December 2025 for Exploration Programs and Geological Reports (GRs) for coal and lignite blocks. This procedural reform is aimed at accelerating exploration, enhancing transparency, and strengthening private sector participation to meet India’s rising energy demands.
Key Changes to the Approval Methodology
The major reform involves utilizing and trusting the expertise of private entities, leading to the following key change:
- The new process no longer requires approval from the Committee constituted by the Ministry of Coal in January 2022 for this purpose.
- The Exploration Programs and GRs will now be prepared by Notified Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs) accredited by QCI-NABET and subsequently peer-reviewed by another such APA.
Impact of the Reform
The simplified mechanism is expected to deliver significant benefits to the coal exploration sector and the national energy landscape:
- The process is expected to save at least 3 months in the approval time for Geological Reports.
- Reduced approval timelines will result in the early operationalization of coal blocks and help allottees meet their milestones promptly.
- The reform demonstrates confidence in private exploration entities, leveraging their efficiency, technological expertise, and innovation for sustainable resource development while maintaining strict adherence to high technical standards.
- The initiative is designed to accelerate exploration, ensuring the long-term security and sustainable utilization of India’s coal resources, supporting the vision of a self-reliant and “Viksit Bharat.”