The Ministry of Coal will host the Star Rating Awards Ceremony on 2 November 2026 in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, to recognize outstanding achievements in coal and lignite mining for the assessment year 2024-25. The awards honor high-performing mines based on comprehensive evaluation across key parameters including operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, occupational health and safety, technological advancement, and responsible resource management.
The Star Rating Policy provides a structured framework for assessing coal and lignite mines, with evaluations conducted by reviewers appointed by the Coal Controller's Organisation. Mines receive ratings ranging from five stars to no star based on their performance in adoption of technology, environmental management, sustainable development, rehabilitation and resettlement, and initiatives for local community welfare.
The ceremony will feature Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy as Chief Guest, Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey as Guest of Honour, and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai as Special Guest. Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt and Additional Secretary Sanoj Kumar Jha from the Ministry of Coal will also attend, along with CMDs of coal and lignite PSUs, industry stakeholders, and state government representatives.
The awards reflect the government's emphasis on promoting scientific, safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible mining practices while strengthening the coal sector's contribution to India's energy security and economic growth. The transparent assessment mechanism encourages mining companies to improve operational standards, strengthen environmental safeguards, and adopt best practices throughout the mining lifecycle, fostering healthy competition and wider adoption of innovative sustainable practices across the sector.