Ministry of Coal Simplifies Approval Mechanism for Exploration Programs and Geological Reports
The revised mechanism eliminates the need for scrutiny by the committee constituted in January 2022, and instead places reliance on reports prepared by Notified Accredited Prospecting Agencies accredited by QCI-NABET and peer-reviewed by another accredited agency.
New Delhi, December 2: The Ministry of Coal has introduced a simplified approval process for exploration programmes and Geological Reports (GRs) for coal and lignite blocks, marking a significant step towards faster, more transparent and technology-driven resource exploration.
The revised mechanism eliminates the need for scrutiny by the committee constituted in January 2022, and instead places reliance on reports prepared by Notified Accredited Prospecting Agencies accredited by QCI-NABET and peer-reviewed by another accredited agency. The new methodology has been published on the ministry’s website.
According to the ministry, the reform is expected to reduce approval timelines by at least three months, helping coal block allottees advance milestones and enabling earlier operationalisation of new mines. Officials said the change is designed to strengthen ease of doing business in the exploration ecosystem.
The ministry emphasised that expanding the role of private Accredited Prospecting Agencies reflects the government’s confidence in private-sector capabilities, including their technological expertise and innovation in sustainable exploration. The approach aims to maintain strict transparency and high technical standards while accelerating the pace of national resource assessment.
The initiative forms part of the ministry’s broader effort to reinforce India’s energy preparedness in line with rising power demand. Faster, more robust and efficient exploration, the Ministry said, will support long-term coal security and contribute to the vision of a self-reliant and future-ready energy sector.
The government aims to build a stronger exploration framework that supports the aspirations of a Viksit Bharat and ensures a resilient coal supply landscape.
