Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh took a major step towards energy self-reliance on Monday with the inauguration of the Namchik-Namphuk coal block in Changlang district — the state’s first-ever commercial coal mining operation.
Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Pema Khandu jointly performed the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony at Longtom village under Kharsang subdivision, marking the formal launch of mining activities at the site.
The coal block, which holds an estimated reserve of 1.5 crore tonnes, was originally allocated in 2003 but remained dormant for nearly two decades due to regulatory and operational hurdles.
It was revived in 2022 through a competitive auction process that opened the door for private participation in the sector.
Officials said the project is expected to generate over Rs. 100 crore in annual revenue for the state exchequer, apart from creating direct and indirect employment opportunities and boosting local economic activity.
Calling the event a milestone for the Northeast, Reddy said on X, “This landmark initiative marks the beginning of a new chapter in Arunachal Pradesh’s growth story of energy security and local prosperity, advancing the Empower, Act, Strengthen, and Transform (EAST) vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”
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Chief Minister Khandu echoed similar sentiments, describing the project as a “major contributor” to the state’s economic foundation.
“This project will create local jobs, build new livelihoods, and spark economic activity across the region,” he said.
The Namchik-Namphuk mining project is seen as a key driver of Arunachal Pradesh’s industrial growth, signalling the state’s entry into India’s expanding coal economy while promising sustainable development for the frontier region.
