New Delhi: In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry of Coal said that the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted approval for the continuation of the Central Sector Scheme titled "Exploration of Coal and Lignite scheme". This scheme, estimated to incur an expenditure of Rs 2,980 crore, will remain effective from 2021-22 to 2025-26, aligning with the 15th Finance Commission cycle, it added.

Further, the statement said that the "Exploration of Coal and Lignite scheme" primarily encompasses two key stages: Promotional (Regional) Exploration and Detailed Exploration in Non-Coal India Limited (CIL) blocks.

Rs 1,650 cr has been allocated for Promotional (Regional) Exploration

A sum of Rs 1,650 crore has been allocated for Promotional (Regional) Exploration, while Rs 1,330 crore has been assigned for Detailed Drilling in Non-CIL areas. The Regional exploration phase will cover approximately 1,300 square kilometers, whereas the Detailed exploration phase will encompass roughly 650 square kilometers.

Scheme's objective is to conduct exploration for Coal & Lignite resources

The scheme's objective is to conduct a comprehensive exploration for Coal and Lignite resources within the country. This process aids in establishing and estimating the availability of coal resources, facilitating the preparation of detailed project reports for commencing coal mining activities. The Geological reports generated through these exploration efforts play a crucial role in the auctioning of new coal blocks, with the cost subsequently recovered from the successful allocatee.

'It is expected to bolster coal mining sector by ensuring accurate estimates of available resources'

The continuation of this scheme underscores the government's commitment to promoting the exploration and utilisation of coal and lignite resources in India. It is expected to bolster the coal mining sector by ensuring accurate estimates of available resources and facilitating the transparent allocation of coal blocks. With this approval, the government aims to foster sustainable growth and development in the coal and lignite industry while adhering to environmentally responsible practices.

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