On June 21, 2024, the Ministry of Coal launched the 10th round of commercial coal mine auctions. A total of nine coal mines were successfully auctioned, including three fully explored mines and six partially explored ones. These mines hold a combined geological reserve of about 3,998.73 million tonnes and have a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 14.10 MTPA (excluding the partially explored mines).
Auction Results:
Here’s a breakdown of the nine mines auctioned in this round:
| S. No. | Mine Name | State | PRC (MTPA) | Geological Reserves (MT) | Closing Bidder | Final Offer (%) | Coking/Non-Coking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bundu | Jharkhand | 1.00 | 102.268 | S M Steels and Power Limited | 16.75 | Non-Coking |
| 2 | Gare Palma IV/5 | Chhattisgarh | 1.10 | 77.990 | Sarda Energy and Minerals Limited | 25.75 | Non-Coking |
| 3 | Kerendari-BC North | Jharkhand | NA | 600.000 | Orissa Alloy Steel Private Limited | 23.25 | Non-Coking |
| 4 | Marwatola South | Madhya Pradesh | NA | 126.300 | Mineware Advisors Private Limited | 22.25 | Non-Coking |
| 5 | New Patrapara South | Odisha | 12.00 | 720.870 | NLC India Limited | 5.50 | Non-Coking |
| 6 | Sarai East (South) | Madhya Pradesh | NA | 128.600 | ACC Limited | 5.50 | Non-Coking |
| 7 | Ulia Gamhardih | Chhattisgarh | NA | 587.700 | S M Steels and Power Limited | 42.50 | Non-Coking |
| 8 | Gawa (East) | Jharkhand | NA | 55.000 | Shreeji Nuravi Coal Mining and Trading Pvt Ltd | 7.00 | Non-Coking |
| 9 | Bartap (Revised) | Odisha | NA | 1,600.000 | JSW Energy Utkal Limited | 8.50 | Non-Coking |
Key Auction Insights:
- The auction saw intense competition, with an average revenue share of 17.44%, showcasing the growing interest in the coal sector.
- These mines are expected to generate ₹1,446 crore in annual revenue (excluding partially explored mines), attract a ₹2,115 crore capital investment, and create 19,063 job opportunities.
Impact on the Coal Sector:
Since the start of commercial coal mining in 2020, a total of 113 coal mines have been successfully auctioned, contributing a total production capacity of 257.60 million tonnes per year. Once operational, these mines will significantly boost domestic coal production, helping India become self-reliant in its coal needs.
These mines are projected to generate an annual revenue of ₹35,437 crore, attract ₹38,641 crore in capital investment, and provide 348,268 jobs in coal-rich regions.
The Ministry’s Vision for Growth:
These strategic initiatives from the Ministry of Coal highlight its commitment to transforming the coal sector into a vital driver of economic growth. By enhancing energy production and creating significant employment opportunities, these efforts align with the vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India).
The successful auctioning of these nine mines marks another important step toward strengthening India’s coal sector and ensuring long-term economic stability.