New Delhi [India], October 5 (ANI): Arunachal Pradesh is set to make history with the launch of its first commercial coal mine at the Namchik-Namphuk coal block on Monday, marking a major milestone for energy security, regional development, and local prosperity, the Ministry of Coal announced on Sunday.
Union Minister G Kishan Reddy will perform the Bhoomi Poojan, hand over the mining lease, flag off tools and machinery of CPPL for the Namchik-Namphuk block, and participate in a 100-tree plantation drive.
The Namchik-Namphuk coal block, with reserves of 1.5 crore tonnes, was originally allocated in 2003 but faced years of delays. It was revived through a transparent auction process in 2022, opening the sector to private investment and ending prolonged obstacles.
The launch aligns with the government’s EAST vision — Empower, Act, Strengthen, Transform — aimed at fostering sustainable growth in the Northeast. Arunachal Pradesh now joins India’s coal journey as part of the world’s second-largest coal producer, which surpassed 1 billion tonnes of production last year.
The mine is expected to generate over ₹100 crore annually in state revenue and create jobs for the youth. Officials have been urged to expedite operations to maximise benefits, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat through local resources and employment.
The Ministry stressed that mining in the Northeast will prioritise ecological balance, ensuring that growth coexists with environmental protection. Under the Mission Green Coal Regions, the coal sector has reclaimed 57,000 hectares of land, with a further 16,000 hectares planned for reclamation by 2030.
Over the past decade, the Northeast has seen investments exceeding ₹6 lakh crore. Arunachal Pradesh alone has witnessed allocations rise from ₹6,000 crore before 2014 to ₹1 lakh crore post-2014, a 16-fold increase. Infrastructure projects include 16,000 km of national highways, 80,000 km of rural roads, 2,000 bridges, 19 airports, and transformative projects such as the Sela Tunnel and Bhupen Hazarika Bridge. Rail investments have quintupled, with ongoing projects worth ₹77,000 crore. The Northeast Gas Grid and Vibrant Villages Programme have further strengthened connectivity and development in the region.
The Ministry also highlighted worker welfare measures, including safety protocols, insurance benefits, accident cover, scholarships, and a uniform dress code scheme to promote identity and unity.
The launch of the Namchik-Namphuk coal block embodies the integration of development, ecology, and Jan Bhagidaari, strengthening India’s energy security, community welfare, and the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
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