Hyderabad: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy criticized the former BRS government for a “policy mistake” that kept Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) from joining national coal block auctions. He spoke about the Centre’s clear coal allocation policy and its effects on Telangana’s mining sector.
Reddy explained that after a Supreme Court decision canceled previous coal block allocations, the Union government introduced a fair auction-based policy.
“Coal is a national asset,” Reddy said. “The Supreme Court required transparency, so all coal blocks, both new and old, have been auctioned.”
Major public companies like Coal India participated in these auctions, but Singareni Collieries did not, due to the former BRS government’s decisions. “This absence delayed coal block auctions in Telangana, affecting the state’s energy and job opportunities,” Reddy noted.
Despite this, Reddy assured continued support for SCCL. “When Singareni needed coal, I helped secure the Naini coal block in Odisha. We are in constant talks and hope the remaining auctions in Telangana will be resolved soon,” he added.
Reddy also discussed the government’s active role in closing mines and developing land post-mining.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed that once mining ends, the land should benefit local communities,” Reddy stated.
He mentioned environmental and safety issues from neglecting mine closures. “Since Independence, abandoned mines have led to wasted land and more accidents. We are changing that,” he said.
So far, 143 mining projects have been closed successfully, and a three-year plan is set for mine closure activities across all coal blocks.
These efforts include land leveling, environmental protection, and community-focused development like promoting fisheries on reclaimed land.
The Union Minister emphasized that their goal is beyond just producing coal. “We aim for balanced development—fulfilling energy needs while protecting the environment and communities near collieries,” he stated.
Reddy highlighted the Centre’s focus on transparent resource allocation and sustainable development, addressing the impact of state policy missteps.
As Telangana seeks to boost its coal industry, the role of Singareni Collieries and aligning with national policy will be key in shaping the future of mining in the area.
