TFP Bureau, New Delhi, July 2, 2025: The Ministry of Coal is set to unveil ‘RECLAIM’—a pioneering community engagement and development framework tailored for mine closure and repurposing—on July 4, 2025. Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G Kishan Reddy, will formally launch the initiative.
Developed collaboratively by the Coal Controller Organisation under the Ministry of Coal and the Heartfulness Institute, RECLAIM addresses the socio-economic and environmental challenges that arise from mine closures. Recognizing the profound impact on local landscapes and livelihoods, the framework aims to ensure a just and sustainable transition for communities that have thrived alongside mining operations for decades.
RECLAIM provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for inclusive community participation during the closure and post-closure phases of mines. It incorporates practical tools, templates, and methodologies rigorously tested in the Indian context to institutionalize community involvement effectively.
The framework emphasizes gender inclusivity and the representation of vulnerable groups, aligning closely with Panchayati Raj Institutions to guarantee local relevance and equity in the transition process.
By fostering trust, ecological restoration, and long-term socio-economic well-being, the RECLAIM Framework aspires to enable resilient and seamless transitions for mining communities, setting a new standard for responsible mine closure in India.
