Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy addressed the 4th Conference of Mining Ministers in Goa, emphasizing the need to accelerate coal sector reforms with focus on coal gasification, critical minerals development, and technology-driven mining practices to strengthen India's energy security. The minister highlighted that sustained reforms have enhanced transparency, efficiency and professionalism in the coal and mining sectors, contributing to national economic growth.
Coal gasification was identified as a priority for optimum utilization of India's abundant coal resources, with potential to unlock economic value, promote industrial diversification, generate employment and strengthen long-term energy security. The minister stressed the strategic importance of critical minerals in the global geopolitical landscape and called for strengthening domestic exploration, mining, processing, refining and recycling capabilities to reduce import dependence.
Technology adoption was emphasized as transformative, with specific calls for harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI), digitalization and advanced technological solutions across exploration, mine operations and mineral recovery to improve productivity, operational efficiency and sustainability. States were urged to expedite operationalization of auctioned mines, accelerate auction of new blocks, and expand exploration activities.
Secretary of Ministry of Coal Shri Vikram Dev Dutt reported that domestic coal production had surpassed one billion tonnes for the second consecutive year, marking significant achievement in India's journey toward energy self-reliance and reduced import dependence. Key initiatives discussed included Commercial Coal Mining, revised SHAKTI framework, and Coal SETU, aimed at promoting private sector participation, simplifying processes and accelerating coal mine operationalization.
Union Minister of State Shri Satish Chandra Dubey emphasized sustainable and responsible mining practices, environmental protection, mine rehabilitation and welfare of communities in mining-affected areas. He stressed the need to incorporate post-mining rehabilitation and alternative livelihood opportunities from the beginning of mining operations.
The conference, organized by Ministry of Mines on 5-6 November 2026, served as a platform for interaction between Mining Ministers from various States and senior officials from Central and State Governments. Discussions focused on progress, opportunities and challenges in the sector, with emphasis on stronger Centre-State collaboration through cooperative federalism.
Additional Secretary Ms. Rupinder Brar presented recent reforms enhancing Ease of Doing Business, simplifying procedures, improving transparency and facilitating investments. The deliberations reaffirmed commitment to unlocking India's coal potential through value addition, operational efficiency, private participation and sustainable practices toward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.