Innovative Coal Sector Initiatives Unveiled at Star Rating Awards

The Star Rating Awards Ceremony, along with a Stakeholder Consultation and Release of the Coal Directory of India, aims to recognize top-performing coal and lignite mines. The ministry seeks to enhance sustainable mining practices and productivity through stakeholder engagement and cutting-edge technologies, reducing reliance on imports and boosting national output.

In a significant move to bolster the coal industry, the Ministry of Coal is organizing the Star Rating Awards Ceremony, a Stakeholder Consultation on Mining Developers cum Operators (MDOs), and unveiling the Coal Directory of India. The event is set to take place at the Scope Convention Centre in New Delhi on October 21.

Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, and Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, will be in attendance. The Star Rating Awards are designed to identify and commend the exemplary performance of coal and lignite mines, encouraging responsible mining practices and elevating industry standards. With a comprehensive evaluation mechanism, the awards assess mines on criteria spanning operations, environmental practices, technological adoption, and safety.

This year's competition sees 380 mines participating, yet only 43 managing to secure the prestigious Five Star Rating. Apart from accolades, the stakeholder consultation initiative aims to engage MDOs in efforts to increase coal production, minimize import dependencies, and introduce advanced mining technologies, ensuring a more efficient and productive sector aligned with national energy needs.

(With inputs from agencies.)