In a move to limit environmental damage from mining, the government aims to encourage the development of underground coal mines across India, intending to increase their share in coal production from the current 4% to 10% by 2030.

Coal Secretary Amrit Lal Meena informed CNBC-TV18 that underground mines cause less harm to the environment compared to open-cast mines, as fewer forests need to be removed, and a smaller number of people have to be displaced.

A high-level expert committee was formed by the government to advise on enhancing production from underground mines. After identifying such mines, the recommendations of the committee are currently under consideration by the Coal Ministry.

Speaking at the launch of the 8th round of Commercial coal mines auction, Coal Secretary Amrit Lal Meena mentioned that 39 mines are up for auction, with 35 being auctioned for the first time, and 4 mines having been offered earlier but not taken up.

He further stated that the government is promoting "Make in India" in heavy earth-moving machinery. Both Coal India and its subsidiaries have placed orders with local manufacturers in this regard. Equipment like surface miners and other machinery made in India are being deployed for coal mining to reduce costs.

Emphasising the significant share of thermal power in India's power production mix, the Secretary stressed the need to make sufficient coal available for the full-scale operation of power plants.

Projecting a requirement of 1500 MT of coal for power and non-power purposes by 2030, he indicated that the government plans to build production capacity in brownfield and greenfield mines, whether through Coal India Limited, captive, or commercial mines.

(Edited by : Anand Singha)