Central Coalfields Ltd to begin coal production at two new mines, creating jobs and pushing annual output capacity by up to 12 million tonnes.
In a major development for India’s coal and employment sectors, Central Coalfields Limited (CCL)—a subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL)—has announced plans to begin production from two new coal mines in Jharkhand during the current fiscal year. The move is expected to significantly boost the company’s production capacity and generate substantial employment opportunities in the region.
Speaking to the media, CCL Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Neelendu Kumar Singh confirmed that the two upcoming projects will help the company meet its ambitious target of 150 million tonnes (15 crore tonnes) of coal production by 2030, with 110 million tonnes targeted for FY 2024–25 alone.
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Two New Mines: Location and Capacity
The first of the two mines is the Kotre Basantpur Block, a coking coal mine with a maximum production capacity of 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). CCL aims to commence production here by October 2025.
The second project is the Chandragupta open-cast mine, a non-coking coal project with a significantly larger capacity of 15 MTPA. Operations at this site are expected to begin by March 2026.
Together, these two mines are projected to increase CCL’s annual production capacity by 10 to 12 million tonnes, aiding the company’s long-term expansion and energy supply targets.
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Record Production in FY 2024–25
CCL has already set new performance benchmarks. In FY 2024–25, the company recorded its highest-ever annual coal production of 87.5 million tonnes. The ramp-up in production comes as part of Coal India’s broader national strategy to meet India’s growing energy demands, while ensuring coal availability for industrial and power generation sectors.
Expanding Across Jharkhand
Currently, CCL operates 38 coal mines across eight districts in Jharkhand, including 35 open-cast and 3 underground mines. The company plans to continue its dual approach: expanding capacity at existing mines and operationalizing new ones to meet future goals.
“To reach our 2030 target of 150 million tonnes, we must begin preparations now. We are focusing on both enhancing existing mine capacity and commissioning new projects rapidly.” Said Neelendu Kumar Singh, Chairman and M.D, CCL
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Economic and Social Impact
Beyond production, the new coal mines are set to deliver significant socioeconomic benefits, particularly for Jharkhand. Hundreds of direct and indirect employment opportunities will be created, and the development of surrounding infrastructure is also anticipated. The initiatives underscore CCL’s role not only as a key energy player but also as a regional development catalyst.
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