**Arunachal Pradesh’s First Commercial Coal Mine to Commence Operations Tomorrow**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | October 5, 2025, 6:41 PM*

Arunachal Pradesh is set to make a significant leap in its mining sector with the inauguration of its first commercial coal mine at the Namchik-Namphuk coal block in Changlang district tomorrow. The ceremony will be led by Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy, who will perform the Bhoomi Poojan and officially hand over the mining lease.

During the event, Minister Reddy will also flag off the machinery for Coal Projects Private Limited (CPPL) to commence operations at the site. As a part of a green initiative, he will plant 100 trees, underscoring the commitment to environmentally responsible mining practices.

**A Long-Awaited Milestone: The Namchik-Namphuk Coal Block**

The Namchik-Namphuk coal block, which holds an estimated reserve of 1.5 crore tons of coal, was initially allocated in 2003. However, the project faced numerous delays and operational challenges over the years. It was in 2022 that the block was revived through a transparent auction process, opening the door for private sector participation and marking Arunachal Pradesh’s formal entry into the coal mining industry.

This development is particularly significant as India currently ranks as the world’s second-largest coal producer, and Arunachal Pradesh’s new role will contribute to bolstering the country’s coal output.

**Economic Benefits and Employment Opportunities**

The launch of commercial coal mining in Arunachal Pradesh is expected to generate an annual revenue of over ₹100 crore for the state government. Additionally, it will create numerous employment opportunities for local youth, providing a boost to the region’s economy.

This initiative aligns closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the Northeast region, encapsulated in the EAST framework—Empower, Act, Strengthen, Transform—which guides development projects throughout the area.

**Promoting Transparency and Sustainable Resource Management**

One of the key benefits of the commercial mining operation is the anticipated end of illegal mining activities and resource exploitation that have previously plagued the region. The government aims to bring transparency and accountability to the management of Arunachal Pradesh’s natural resources through this official and regulated mining operation.

Furthermore, plans are underway to auction additional critical mineral blocks—two in Arunachal Pradesh and five in neighboring Assam—highlighting the Northeast’s growing importance in India’s strategic minerals and technology sectors.

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The inauguration of the Namchik-Namphuk coal mine marks a new chapter in Arunachal Pradesh’s economic development, promising growth, sustainability, and prosperity for the region.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/arunachal-pradesh-to-start-commercial-coal-mining-on-october-6/story