The government announced on Monday that a total of 39 mines will be offered for sale in the eighth round of the commercial coal mines auction, set to commence on Wednesday. This follows the initiation of the first tranche of the commercial coal mine auction by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2020, which has, so far, included 91 coal mines across seven tranches.

The upcoming round will feature 35 coal mines, comprising 11 under the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015, and 24 under the MMDR Act 1957. Additionally, four coal mines will be offered in the second attempt of round seven of the commercial coal auction, as stated by the coal ministry in a released statement.

The launch of the eighth round of commercial coal mining auctions is deemed a significant step in encouraging private sector involvement in the coal mining industry, aimed at boosting coal production. The Ministry of Coal is actively preparing for the launch scheduled for November 15, 2023, with Coal and Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi set to be the chief guest.

The ministry highlighted that the progressive policies of the Centre have facilitated a quicker allocation of mines to the private sector. The upcoming auction is expected to attract the participation of new players, further advancing India towards self-reliance in coal production.