In a major reform aimed at accelerating India’s coal and lignite exploration activities, the Ministry of Coal has introduced a simplified approval mechanism for “Exploration Programs and Geological Reports” (GRs). The announcement, made on Monday, is part of the government’s broader push to modernise exploration processes, promote efficiency and strengthen the energy security of a rapidly growing economy.
The revised system eliminates the need for approval from the committee constituted by the Ministry in January 2022. Instead, Geological Reports prepared by Notified Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs) accredited by QCI-NABET and peer-reviewed by another accredited agency will now move through a streamlined process.
According to the Ministry, this procedural overhaul is expected to save at least three months in the approval of Geological Reports. The shorter timeline will enable faster operationalisation of coal blocks and assist allottees in meeting their project milestones more efficiently.
Officials said the reform reflects the government’s increasing confidence in private exploration entities. By leveraging the expertise, technology, and innovation capabilities of accredited private agencies, the move aims to boost transparency while ensuring adherence to rigorous technical standards.
The Ministry emphasised that the updated methodology is designed to strengthen India’s coal exploration ecosystem at a time when rising energy demand calls for faster and more reliable resource assessment. The full methodology document has been made publicly available on the Ministry’s website.
The reform is expected to significantly enhance ease of doing business in the sector, reduce administrative bottlenecks, and support the sustainable development of India’s coal resources. As part of the government’s wider vision for a Viksit Bharat, the Ministry stated that these forward-looking measures will improve energy preparedness and contribute to building a resilient, future-ready energy landscape.
