Ministry signs agreements for three commercial coal blocks DVC

In a significant step towards strengthening India’s energy security and accelerating economic growth, the Union ministry of coal has executed Coal Mine Development and Production Agreements (CMDPAs) with the Kolkata-based Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) for three commercial coal blocks ~ Dhulia North, Mandakini B and Pirpainti Barahat. These blocks were successfully auctioned under the 13th round of commercial coal mining auctions.

The execution of the agreements marks an important milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in the coal sector. All three coal blocks are fully explored and together have a cumulative peak rated capacity (PRC) of 49 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), highlighting their strategic importance in meeting the country’s growing energy demand.

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The projects are expected to generate an estimated annual revenue of Rs 4,621 crore and attract capital investment of around Rs 7,350 crore, thereby contributing significantly to economic activity and industrial growth.

Besides enhancing energy availability, the development of these coal blocks is projected to yield substantial socio-economic benefits. The three projects are expected to create nearly 66,248 direct and indirect employment opportunities, supporting livelihood generation and regional development in coal-bearing areas.

The ministry of coal has reiterated its commitment to expanding domestic coal production through a transparent, competitive and investor-friendly auction framework. These initiatives are aimed at ensuring long-term energy security, promoting economic growth and advancing inclusive development in line with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Incidentally, the Damodar Valley Corporation has been expanding its thermal power generation capacity at Durgapur in West Burdwan, Mejia in Bankura, and Raghunathpur in Purulia district of West Bengal, as well as in Jharkhand, to significantly augment power generation.