The Ministry of Coal has taken a significant leap towards streamlining and accelerating the process for coal mine approvals with the launch of a new Mine Opening Permission module on the Single Window Clearance System (SWCS) portal. This transformative move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a digitally advanced and self-reliant India. The module was inaugurated by Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, Secretary of the Ministry of Coal, marking a major milestone in the coal sector’s digital transformation.
The Mine Opening Permission module is set to simplify the traditionally lengthy approval process required to open new coal mines or explore new coal seams. This digital initiative, part of the SWCS platform, is designed to reduce the time and paperwork needed for permissions, making the approval process more efficient and transparent. By shifting to a digital model, the module aims to foster a more investment-friendly environment, thereby boosting coal production and strengthening India’s energy security.
Launched on 11 January 2021, the Single Window Clearance System (SWCS) serves as a unified digital platform for coal mine-related approvals, simplifying what was once a highly complex procedure. The new Mine Opening Permission module further enhances this system by allowing coal operators to apply online for opening permissions and track their applications in real time. The module not only reduces manual paperwork but also significantly cuts down processing time, a move that is expected to foster growth and attract investment in the coal sector.
“The Mine Opening Permission module is a significant step towards achieving the ease of doing business in the coal sector,” remarked Shri Vikram Dev Dutt. “With this streamlined approach, we are making it easier for companies to open new mines, which will ultimately support India’s energy security and sustainable development goals.”
India’s coal industry is a crucial component of the nation’s energy matrix. By increasing the efficiency of mine openings, the Ministry of Coal aims to boost production and reduce dependency on imports, aligning with India’s vision of sustainable growth and energy self-sufficiency. With real-time tracking and streamlined processes, the SWCS platform provides stakeholders with a transparent and efficient pathway to obtaining necessary permissions, thereby supporting quicker decision-making and fostering a productive investment climate.
The module underscores the Ministry’s commitment to leveraging digital solutions for sustainable development and self-reliance. As India continues to pursue its vision of a Viksit Bharat, the launch of the Mine Opening Permission module reflects the nation’s commitment to modernising its infrastructure, increasing transparency, and supporting a business-friendly environment in the coal sector.
