“Our sustainable mining approach aligns with two key goals: achieving Athmanirbharta (self-reliance) in mineral resources and upholding our commitment to environmental sustainability.”
“Mine closure is not the end; it is a new beginning for revival, hope, and prosperity.” – Kishan Reddy
HYDERABAD, JULY 04, 2025: Union Minister of Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the Indian National Committee meeting of the World Mining Congress (WMC) in Hyderabad on Friday. The theme centred on sustainable mining and responsible practices through effective mine closure. He warmly welcomed esteemed national and international participants, reaffirming India’s commitment to responsible, transparent, and sustainable mining practices.
In his address, Mr Kishan Reddy noted that since its inception in 1958, the World Mining Congress has served as an essential global platform for promoting collaboration and innovation in the mining sector. He emphasized that as the world transitions to greener mining practices, the role of WMC has become more significant than ever.
He stated, “For India, sustainable mining aligns with our twin goals—achieving Athmanirbharta (self-reliance) in mineral resources and maintaining our commitment to environmental sustainability.”
The Minister highlighted the importance of responsible mine closure and announced the adoption of the 6Rs Philosophy for mine closure: Reclamation, Repurposing, Rehabilitation, Revegetation, Remediation, and Relinquishment. He proudly shared that, for the first time since Independence, ten mines have been successfully closed with scientific planning, and an additional 147 mines have been identified for closure in a timely manner.
The Ministry has also revised guidelines to enhance the monitoring, administration, and implementation of mine closure plans. A new “RECLAIM Framework” was unveiled at the event to ensure meaningful community engagement and ecological restoration efforts.
Referring to the reforms implemented under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Minister stated that auction-based allocation of mineral blocks has made the sector more transparent and competitive, with over 500 mineral blocks auctioned to date. New policy measures have facilitated ease of doing business, including 50-year uniform leases, the elimination of lease renewal delays, and digital processing through a Single Window System.
India has achieved a historic milestone in coal production, surpassing 1 billion tonnes while reducing imports by 7.9% in 2025. The emphasis on a clean energy transition includes coal gasification, renewable energy diversification, and the eco-restoration of mined lands.
He noted the launch of the National Critical Minerals Mission and offshore mineral auctions, positioning India among a select group of countries developing domestic ecosystems for minerals such as lithium and rare earth elements.
He also unveiled Vision Plans for Strategic Minerals—Aluminium and Copper—to boost India’s green growth and manufacturing ambitions for a sustainable future. Citing success stories like Cuddalore district in Tamil Nadu, where repurposed mines now provide drinking water and support agriculture, the Minister emphasised that once-exhausted mines are becoming engines of local development.
“Mine closure,” he remarked, “is not the end; it is a new beginning for revival, hope, and prosperity.”
Mr Kishan Reddy called for stronger public-private partnerships and inclusive engagement with local communities, industry, and civil society to make mine closure more impactful and future-ready.
“Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, India is redefining how mining coexists with environmental care and community well-being. Let us commit to making mine closure a story of revival and renewal;”, he concluded.
Mr V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines; Mr P.M. Prasad, Chairman and Managing Director of Coal India Limited; Mrs Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Coal; CMDs of Coal, Mines & Lignite public sector undertakings, officials from the coal and mine ministries, and various stakeholders from the mining industry participated.
About the Author
