TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 11, 2025: In a pivotal meeting held at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai and Union Coal and Mines Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy today reviewed the functioning of Chhattisgarh’s Mineral Department, focusing on the state’s substantial contributions to India’s mining sector. The review included a comprehensive discussion on exploration efforts, technological advancements, and the state’s growing role in coal and critical mineral production.
Union Minister Reddy praised Chhattisgarh’s leadership in coal production, noting that the state’s contributions were instrumental in reaching the national target of one billion tonnes of coal output in 2024-2025. He also highlighted the state’s success in securing the first lithium block in India, underscoring Chhattisgarh’s pivotal role in advancing critical minerals like lithium, iron ore, and tin.
“Chhattisgarh is not only rich in minerals but is becoming a strategic leader in the mineral sector,” said Minister Reddy. He acknowledged the state’s efforts in sustainable mineral exploration and innovative practices, which are key to India’s vision of self-reliance.
Strengthening Mineral Exploration and Sustainable Mining Practices
During the meeting, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai emphasized the state’s commitment to boosting its participation in the mining sector. He stressed the need for enhanced coordination with the Central Government to strengthen the state’s role in India’s industrial growth.
“Our goal is to make Chhattisgarh a strong pillar in the construction of a developed India through the effective utilization of our mineral resources,” said Chief Minister Sai. He noted the state’s significant reserves of coal, iron ore, bauxite, tin, and limestone, which are vital for both the national economy and industrial development.
As part of this effort, the state has launched several initiatives such as the Mineral Online Portal and e-auction processesto ensure transparency, technical efficiency, and environmental responsibility in mining activities. Chief Minister Sai highlighted the Lakhpati Didi Yojana to foster inclusive development in mining-affected areas, further strengthening Chhattisgarh’s sustainable mining framework.
Licensing of Critical Minerals and Iron Ore Blocks
A landmark moment in the review meeting was the handover of the composite license contract for India’s first lithium block in Katghora to Maiki South Mining Pvt. Ltd., which emerged as the highest bidder at 76.05%. Additionally, preferred bidder orders for four iron ore blocks in Dantewada and Kanker districts were awarded to major companies like ArcelorMittal and Rungta Sons.
Shri Reddy also commended the state for its significant progress in lithium exploration, highlighting the strategic importance of lithium for India’s energy security. “This lithium block marks a monumental step towards self-reliance and sustainable energy solutions,” he remarked.
Chhattisgarh’s Growing Role in National Mineral Sector
Secretary of the Mineral Resources Department Shri P. Dayanand shared key statistics, revealing that Chhattisgarh contributes over 17% of the national mineral production value, despite comprising only 4% of the country’s total area. The state has successfully allocated 48 mineral blocks through e-auction, reinforcing its role as a leading contributor to India’s mining sector.
Minister Reddy also mentioned the recent inspection of the Gevra coal mine, the largest in India, and praised the innovative technologies deployed there. He underscored the importance of developing sustainable coal corridors and ensuring environmental protection alongside enhanced mining operations.
Collaborative Effort for a Developed India
As the discussion concluded, both Chief Minister Sai and Minister Reddy reiterated the importance of Chhattisgarh’s contributions to India’s mining and energy sectors. The Union Minister committed to further collaboration between the state and the central government to explore and sustainably manage mineral resources, particularly those of strategic importance.
Key Figures Present
The review meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain, Principal Secretary Shri Subodh Kumar Singh, and several senior officials from the Ministry of Coal, Coal India Limited, and the Chhattisgarh government.
