Meghalaya has received the final clearance for scientific coal mining, allowing three miners to begin operations immediately.
Announcing the breakthrough, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma stated, “All necessary permissions have now been granted. The miners can start tonight, tomorrow, or whenever they choose.”
The approval comes after an extensive and complex process involving multiple agencies at both the state and central levels. The government had to challenge the Supreme Court’s coal mining ban, secure special provisions from the Ministry of Coal, and create a new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) specifically for Meghalaya. This was followed by securing over 20-30 clearances from various departments.
Reflecting on the difficulty of the process, Sangma remarked, “This was a highly challenging and tedious journey. Previous governments struggled to find a way forward, but we decided to bite the bullet. We fought in court, pushed for policy changes, and today, we have finally succeeded.”
Each miner has submitted a scientifically approved mining plan, vetted by central agencies such as the Ministry of Coal. While the specifics of mining technology remain with the miners, the CM assured that all operations will be scientific and fully compliant with national environmental and safety norms. “Whatever has been approved will be scientific, regulated, and monitored. These clearances come with strict conditions,” he emphasised.
CM Sangma also addressed concerns about past illegal coal mining, attributing it to the sudden ban that left thousands without livelihoods. “You cannot just stop an activity that has been ongoing for over a century and expect people to instantly find alternatives. We had to ensure a fair transition,” he said. With scientific mining now approved, the government expects a systematic and legal coal mining sector to take shape, reducing illegal activities.
The economic impact is expected to be significant, with potential revenue matching or exceeding past figures of Rs 500-900 crore annually from coal mining. However, the CM remained cautious, stating, “Production will take time to reach optimal levels, but we expect revenues to be substantial.”
To curb illegal activities and ensure transparency, the government has implemented strict monitoring mechanisms. Unlike in the past, where small, scattered mines made enforcement difficult, the new operations will be concentrated in large 100-hectare zones, making regulation more efficient.
Sangma concluded with optimism, stating, “We are hopeful that this will be the beginning of a well-regulated, legal coal mining industry in Meghalaya. This is a turning point, and we will ensure that mining is done responsibly, sustainably, and for the benefit of our people.”