TFP Bureau, Itanagar, October 5, 2025: Arunachal Pradesh is set to mark a historic milestone with the inauguration of its first commercial coal mine at the Namchik-Namphuk coal block on 6 October 2025. Union Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy will perform the Bhoomi Poojan, hand over the mining lease, flag off CPPL’s mining tools and machinery, and participate in a 100-tree plantation drive, underscoring the government’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development.
The Namchik-Namphuk coal block, with estimated reserves of 1.5 crore tonnes, was initially allocated in 2003 but faced long delays due to administrative and operational challenges. It was revived through a transparent auction in 2022, enabling private sector participation and ending years of stalled progress. The launch aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s EAST (Empower, Act, Strengthen, Transform) vision for the Northeast, while contributing to India’s growing coal sector, which produced over 1 billion tonnes last year.
The mine is expected to generate over ₹100 crore annually for the state and create employment opportunities for local youth. It also signals an end to illegal mining and exploitation of resources, ensuring development, transparency, and accountability benefit the people of Arunachal Pradesh. Alongside coal, critical mineral blocks in the state are being unlocked for the first time, supporting future technology and national security.
Government officials have been directed to expedite operations to maximize local employment and promote Atmanirbhar Bharat through local resources and jobs. While pursuing growth, authorities emphasized that mining in Arunachal Pradesh will maintain ecological balance. The Northeast region, known for its green valleys and rivers, is being developed as a model for sustainable mining, with Mission Green Coal Regions reclaiming 57,000 hectares already and planning to reclaim another 16,000 hectares by 2030.
The launch also reflects the broader economic transformation of the Northeast. Investments in the region over the past 11 years exceed ₹6 lakh crore, with Arunachal alone seeing allocations rise from ₹6,000 crore pre-2014 to ₹1 lakh crore post-2014. Connectivity has improved with 16,000 km of national highways, 80,000 km of rural roads, 2,000 bridges, 19 airports, and major infrastructure projects like the Sela Tunnel and Bhupen Hazarika Bridge. Rail investments now total ₹77,000 crore, and initiatives like the Northeast Gas Grid and Vibrant Villages Programme have expanded energy access and connected 450 border villages.
Workers in the coal sector are being provided comprehensive support, including safety measures, competitive wages, healthcare, scholarships, insurance, and welfare programs. Initiatives such as the Corporate Salary Package, ₹1 crore accident cover, ₹2 crore air accident cover, and uniform dress code schemes aim to ensure dignity, safety, and unity among employees.
The Namchik-Namphuk coal block launch embodies the integration of economic growth, ecological responsibility, and Jan Bhagidaari, supporting energy security, community welfare, and self-reliance. This historic development positions Arunachal Pradesh as a key contributor to India’s sustainable industrial growth while empowering local communities and strengthening the nation’s energy landscape.
