New Delhi/Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh is set to enter a new phase of industrial growth and energy development as the Centre launches the state’s first-ever commercial coal mining operations on Monday at the Namchik-Namphuk coal block in Changlang district.
Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy, along with Chief Minister Pema Khandu, will inaugurate the commercial operations by performing the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony and formally handing over the mining lease to the operator.
The project, according to the Coal Ministry, marks a “historic milestone” for the frontier state, signalling the end of decades of resource underutilisation.
Allocated in 2003, the Namchik-Namphuk coal block—estimated to hold around 1.5 crore tonnes of reserves—had faced prolonged delays due to procedural and operational hurdles.
Revived through a competitive auction process in 2022, the project paved the way for private participation in the state’s mining sector.
Once operational, it is expected to generate over Rs. 100 crore in annual revenue for Arunachal Pradesh.
In an official statement, Minister Reddy described the launch as “not merely an industrial milestone, but a symbol of trust, transparency, and transformation for the entire Northeast.”
He added that the initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of an Atma Nirbhar Bharat, integrating the region into India’s larger energy and infrastructure network through sustainable and legally compliant mining practices.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu hailed the project as a turning point for Arunachal, noting that it would enhance revenue generation, create new jobs, and spur infrastructure growth.
“This initiative will strengthen our economy and open new opportunities for our youth,” Khandu said, expressing gratitude for the Centre’s continued support.
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The Coal Ministry also confirmed that efforts are underway to unlock critical mineral sources in the region, with two blocks in Arunachal Pradesh and five in Assam currently under auction.
Early operationalisation of these sites, officials said, would further boost employment and regional development.
Mahalaxmi Group chairman Naveen Singhal, one of the project’s promoters, said the venture would serve as a “national benchmark for balancing economic progress with environmental responsibility,” adding that it represents a first-of-its-kind model for coal mining in the Northeast.
The launch of the Namchik-Namphuk project is expected to usher in a new era of energy security, self-reliance, and economic growth for Arunachal Pradesh and the broader Northeastern region.
