In a significant affirmation of the central government's commitment to transforming India's mining sector, Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Mr. Gangapuram Kishan Reddy, on June 7, 2025, outlined the broad spectrum of reforms and initiatives implemented over the past 11 years. These reforms are aimed not only at ensuring economic growth and resource efficiency but also at promoting sustainability, safety, and environmental conservation.

Speaking at a felicitation ceremony hosted by the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) in Jaipur, Mr. Reddy recognised the contributions of several mining companies by honouring their operations with seven-star and five-star sustainability ratings. These accolades, part of the government’s evaluation system, signal compliance with stringent sustainable mining standards.

Eleven Years of Transformative Reforms

The last decade has seen India’s mining landscape undergo a comprehensive overhaul with a clear focus on transparency, digitisation, and sustainable development. Mr. Reddy reiterated that the reforms implemented by the central government since 2014 have:

• Improved transparency in mine allocation through auction-based mechanisms.

• Encouraged private sector participation with reduced bureaucratic hurdles.

• Introduced technology in exploration and mine operations to enhance productivity and ensure minimal environmental disruption.

• Integrated safety-first protocols to protect mine workers and local communities.

• Strengthened regulatory oversight to curb illegal mining practices.

He further urged stakeholders to discard outdated notions that associate mining with unchecked exploitation. Instead, he called for responsible mining that coexists with community welfare and ecological balance.

The Role of Technology in Sustainable Mining

A key highlight of Mr. Reddy’s address was the emphasis on technology adoption. He acknowledged that digital tools, satellite monitoring, real-time environmental impact assessment, and drone surveillance are becoming increasingly integral to mining operations. The government has encouraged companies to modernise operations using artificial intelligence, geospatial mapping, and remote sensing technologies.

By integrating modern systems, India aims to reduce human risk, enhance mineral recovery, and promote eco-friendly practices—crucial steps in ensuring that the mining sector aligns with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards.

Rajasthan: Model State for Mining Growth

The event in Jaipur also featured an address by Rajasthan’s Chief Minister, Mr. Bhajan Lal Sharma, who echoed the central vision for sustainable mining. He stated that Rajasthan recorded a 24% increase in royalty collection in the previous year, underlining both sectoral expansion and effective governance.

Rajasthan stands out as a mineral-rich state, home to 57 types of metallic and non-metallic minerals, including iron ore, gold, zinc, limestone, and marble. The state accounts for 12% of India’s total mineral production value, reinforcing its status as a critical contributor to the national mining economy.

Mr. Sharma emphasised that the state maintains a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining and is committed to upholding environmental safeguards. He extended an open invitation to entrepreneurs and investors to join Rajasthan’s transparent and business-friendly mining framework, which prioritises sustainable extraction, job creation, and regional development.

Recognising Responsible Mining: Indian Bureau of Mines Initiative

The felicitation ceremony by the Indian Bureau of Mines was organized to recognise mining companies that adhere to best practices in operations, worker safety, environmental stewardship, and community engagement. The seven-star and five-star ratings awarded to companies are based on an exhaustive set of performance criteria developed to encourage accountability and continuous improvement.

This star-rating mechanism not only incentivises companies but also creates benchmarks for new entrants and small-scale mining operators. It promotes a culture of competitiveness and responsibility within the sector.

Environmental Commitment and Legal Frameworks

One of the consistent themes in the reforms has been the integration of environmental regulation into mining policy. The Ministry of Coal and Mines has worked closely with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to design policies that:

• Mandate environmental clearances prior to commencement of operations.

• Require rehabilitation of mined areas through afforestation and water conservation.

• Include community consultation in project planning.

• Impose strict penalties for violations and unsafe mining practices.

These regulations are intended to create a holistic mining model, where resource extraction goes hand-in-hand with social responsibility and ecological preservation.

Future Outlook for India's Mining Industry

With global demand rising for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, rare earths, and copper, India is increasingly positioning itself as a strategic supplier in the global mining value chain. These resources are essential for clean energy technologies, battery manufacturing, and advanced electronics.

To this end, the Indian government is actively promoting:

• Exploration partnerships with international players.

• Policy support for mining startups and SMEs.

• Skill development programs in mining regions to generate employment.

• Green mining certifications to align with global standards.

The emphasis is now shifting towards critical mineral discovery, resource conservation, and value addition within India, reducing import dependence and boosting domestic manufacturing under Make in India.

Balancing Growth with Social Equity

In his speech, Mr. Reddy also reminded the audience that economic growth in mining cannot come at the cost of human dignity or environmental health. He stressed the importance of safety mechanisms for workers, adequate compensation and rehabilitation for affected communities, and inclusive development.

Mining, he said, must become a symbol of national pride, not controversy, and can do so only by embracing transparency, responsibility, and innovation.

Conclusion

The developments over the past 11 years signify that India’s mining sector is on a clear and determined path to becoming more responsible, tech-driven, and inclusive. With continued policy reform, state cooperation, and private investment, the sector is poised to contribute significantly to India’s GDP, employment, and global competitiveness.

The Ministry of Coal and Mines, under the leadership of Mr. Gangapuram Kishan Reddy, remains committed to safeguarding environmental standards, uplifting communities, and ensuring that India emerges as a global leader in sustainable mining.

As states like Rajasthan lead the way with record royalties, mineral-rich potential, and a transparent governance model, the Indian mining industry is well-positioned for a resilient, green, and inclusive future.

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