India: Ministry of Coal launches 12th tranche of commercial coal mine auctions

• 25 coal mines to be auctioned in 12th tranche
  
  
• 12 commercial mines successfully auctioned in 11th tranche
  
  

The Ministry of Coal launched the 12th tranche of commercial coal mine auctions on 27 March, 2025 to increase coal production in India.

A total of 25 coal mines will be auctioned, aimed at ensuring a steady supply for industries and power plants while reducing import dependency.

State-wise distribution of coal mines

Chhattisgarh has the highest number of mines on offer, with seven mines, followed by Jharkhand with five mines and Madhya Pradesh with four mines. Maharashtra has three mines, while Odisha, Rajasthan, and West Bengal have two each.

Of these, seven mines fall under the CMSP [Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015], while 18 are under the MMDR (Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957). Additionally, two mines have lignite reserves. The auction includes 13 fully explored mines ready for immediate mining and 12 partially explored mines requiring further exploration.

E-auction results for 11th tranche

On 24 March, the Ministry of Coal announced the e-auction results for the 11th round of commercial coal mine auctions, held between 18-22 March, 2025. Key results include:

• Rungta Sons acquired Seregarha (at 36.5% premium) and Vijay Central (48.5%).
  
  
• Jindal Steel & Power won Saradhapur Jalatap East at 10%.
  
  
• Jindal Power secured Banai and Bhalumunda at 48%.
  
  
• Western Coalfields bagged Dahegaon/Makardhokra-IV at 10.5%.
  
  
• Seven additional mines were auctioned to various bidders.
  
  

Additionally, the Ministry will auction three more partially explored mines under the MMDR Act in a second attempt of Round 11, further driving investment and domestic coal production.

Enhancing transparency & energy security

The government aims to establish a transparent and competitive coal market, ensuring sufficient supply for industries while reducing reliance on imports. The 12th tranche of coal mine auctions is expected to attract global and domestic investors, stabilise coal prices, and support economic growth.