On 20-5-2025, the Ministry of Coal notified the Mineral Concession (Amendment) Rules, 2025 to streamline the mining operations in mining plan allowing boundary extensions, increased productions and adaptation to technology. The provisions came into force on 20-5-2025.
Key Points:
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The reforms introduced by this amending Rules will bring key changes into mining plan regulations. The provisional changes establishes:
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expansion beyond block boundaries;
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increase in production limits;
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modernizing mining methods;
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simplification of approval processes for minor modifications;
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strength to environmental and regulatory oversight;
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sustainable and responsible mining practices.
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After successfully seeking approvals from the State Government and obtaining No Objection Certificate which will be issued after considering the certificate issued by the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited, the project proponent will be allowed expansion in mining plan areas.
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Coal bearing status of the area will be assessed, which will be pivotal in making the decision if the proponent is allowed to expand, if the areas contain coal, re-handling of the overburden will be conducted within the mining plan timeline.
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Any modifications to the Mining plans will be implemented in accordance with the provisions and in case of minor modifications, the Board of Directors of the Company concerned will permit the changes.
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Minor Modifications permissible to the mining plan includes:
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Changes in land type;
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Infrastructure adjustments;
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Production increase only up to 50%;
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Adoption of modern technology;
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Improvements in waste disposal;
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Repurposing land for renewable projects.
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Temporary closures are formally introduced allowing mines to pause operations without disrupting any regulatory compliances.
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The oversight of Authority is expanded, other than Regional Controller of Mines, Coal Controller will also be included to ensure strict monitoring and governance over mining activities.
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Market shift that is expected to be seen through these changes:
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Larger mining companies will likely scale up faster, modernize their operations, and expand into renewables.
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Smaller firms can now focus on efficiency, sustainability, and regulatory adaptation.
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The inclusion of community development projects in mine closure plans signals a push toward corporate social responsibility.
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These provisions align mining policies with India’s focus on renewable energy and sustainable resource management.