Dibrugarh, Oct 6: Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy on Monday laid the foundation stone (Bhoomi Pujan) of the Namchik–Namphuk Central Coal Block in Changlang district — the state’s first-ever commercial coal mine.

The initiative marks the end of decades of unregulated coal extraction and resource wastage, setting the stage for a new era of energy security, employment generation, and sustainable growth in the frontier state.

Congratulating the Arunachal Pradesh government and its people, Reddy underscored the central role of coal in India’s energy landscape. “Seventy-four per cent of the nation’s power is generated through coal. This is why the government is committed to scientific extraction of the reserves we possess,” he said.

Highlighting India’s position as the fifth-largest nation in terms of coal reserves, the minister noted that the country produced one billion tonnes of coal last year — a milestone achievement.

Speaking at Lomtom village near Kharsang, Reddy urged local communities to extend full cooperation to the operating companies to ensure smooth implementation.

He assured that residents would benefit through the District Mineral Fund (DMF), which will be managed by the Deputy Commissioner for local development initiatives.

The Namchik–Namphuk coal block, with an estimated reserve of 1.5 crore tonnes, was originally allocated in 2003 but remained dormant due to administrative and environmental challenges. Revived through a 2022 auction, it now signals the entry of private sector participation in Arunachal’s mining sector.

According to the Ministry of Coal, the project is expected to generate over ₹100 crore in annual revenue for the state, significantly bolstering Arunachal’s financial capacity and developmental reach.

The ministry further revealed that exploration and auctioning of critical mineral blocks are ongoing across the Northeast — with two in Arunachal Pradesh and five in Assam already under the auction process — as part of India’s broader strategy to secure essential resources and promote industrial self-reliance.

Officials added that the early operationalisation of these mines will boost the region’s industrial base, create direct and indirect employment, and support local enterprises connected to the mining supply chain.

The event was attended by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Lok Sabha MP Tapir Gao, State Forest, Geology and Mining Minister Wanki Lowang, and several senior officials and dignitaries.

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