Recognising Responsible Mining
The awards honoured top-performing mines under the Ministry’s Star Rating framework, which evaluates operations based on safety, environmental management, scientific mining, productivity, and community welfare. Shri Reddy presented Five-Star Awards to leading mines, calling the recognition a benchmark for responsible mining rather than just an accolade. He urged all stakeholders to strive for Five-Star standards to ensure energy security while meeting global benchmarks for sustainability.
The ceremony also spotlighted winners of the Hackathon on Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) and Research & Development projects. In a bid to strengthen innovation, the Ministry unveiled two frameworks—L.I.V.E.S, a guide for sustainable mine closures, and ARTHA, a green financing model for converting reclaimed mines into environmentally friendly assets.
In addition, a redesigned Coal Controller’s Organisation (CCO) website and an interactive dashboard were launched to improve transparency, efficiency, and accessibility of sectoral data.
Leaders Call for Aatmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat
In his keynote, Shri Reddy emphasised the need for coal gasification, clean-coal technologies, and better coal quality through washeries. He noted that India must move from import dependence towards building capacity for exports. “Reform, Perform, Transform is not a slogan but a duty,” he said, urging stakeholders to contribute to the Prime Minister’s vision of an Aatmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat.
Minister of State Shri Dubey stressed that responsible mining requires equal focus on land restoration, biodiversity conservation, mine closure, and community welfare. He underlined that mining should act as a catalyst for socio-economic growth by creating jobs and improving quality of life in coal-bearing regions.
Sector’s Achievements and Future Outlook
Secretary Shri Vikram Dev Dutt praised the awardees for setting high standards in safety and sustainability. He highlighted that India achieved a historic milestone of over one billion tonnes of coal production and supply last year, showing resilience and growth in the sector. He noted that responsible and competitive mining is essential for balancing energy security with environmental care.
Senior officials including Additional Secretary Smt. Rupinder Brar, coal PSUs, and private mining companies attended the ceremony. A cultural performance by specially-abled children added an inspiring touch, showcasing the importance of inclusivity and community engagement.