On Monday, Arunachal Pradesh took a major step in its economic future. Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Pema Khandu opened the state’s first commercial coal mine in Changlang district, called the Namchik Namphuk Coal Mine.
The new mine has about 15 million tonnes of coal in reserve and is ready to start work immediately. Reddy said the project brings a “new hope” for the North East, helping India move toward energy security and a self‑reliant economy under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat plan. The mine will create jobs, boost local industry and add steady revenue for Arunachal Pradesh.
During the ceremony the mining lease was handed over and the first tools and machines from CPPL were flag‑off‑ed to the Central Coal Block. The hand‑over marks the official start of mining operations.
Chief Minister Khandu welcomed the mine as a driver of state growth. He highlighted the new jobs it will generate, the steady income it will bring to Arunachal’s communities, and how it could attract more investment in mining and industry. He also said the project will end illegal digging, waste and exploitation of state resources, ensuring that development is transparent and benefits the people.
Arunachal is also unlocking critical minerals for the first time. Two new blocks in the state and five in Assam are now up for auction, vital for future technology and national security.
Officials ask that the mine open quickly to provide employment for local youth. They emphasized that any mining in the region must keep the environment safe and preserve the green valleys and rivers that people love. The government says it will manage the work as an economic, ecological and community responsibility, following the “Jan Bhagidaari” (people’s participation) model.
Under the Mission Green Coal Regions, the coal sector has already reclaimed 57,000 hectares of land and plans to add 16,000 hectares more by 2030. The goal is to combine growth with care for the environment and local communities.
The Namchik Namphuk Coal Mine marks a historic moment for Arunachal Pradesh. It is the state’s first commercial coal project and signals a new chapter in the North East’s place on India’s energy map. With employment, economic growth and careful environmental stewardship, the mine aims to be a model for sustainable mining in India.
Source: ianslive
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