(THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM)
In a notable step towards realising the Prime Minister’s vision of Digital India and Viksit Bharat, the Ministry of Coal, in collaboration with the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDIL), organised a Stakeholder Workshop on the newly launched Exploration Module under the Single Window Clearance System (SWCS).

The workshop, held shortly after the module’s official launch by the Union Minister of Coal and Mines on 4th July 2025, aimed to familiarise stakeholders with the transformative features of the digital platform. This event was graced by the presence of Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal, and Ajitesh Kumar, Director, Ministry of Coal, underscoring the leadership’s commitment to driving transparency and efficiency in coal exploration through digital means.

A Live Demonstration of Digital Transition

The workshop featured a live demonstration and interactive session focusing on the core functionalities of the new module. Stakeholders were introduced to its streamlined processes, including:

– Online submission of exploration proposals
– Real-time monitoring of progress
– End-to-end digital approval of Geological Reports (GRs)

By integrating these processes into one unified digital interface, the Ministry aims to eliminate procedural delays, enhance transparency, and promote a more accountable governance mechanism in coal exploration.

Mandatory Digital Submissions Going Forward

A key takeaway from the workshop was the official mandate that all future Geological Report submissions will be exclusively processed through the SWCS Exploration Module. This transition is expected to reduce administrative bottlenecks and ensure timely evaluations, benefiting both government agencies and private players in the coal sector.

Strong Stakeholder Participation

The workshop witnessed active involvement from coal block allottees and accredited exploration agencies, reflecting a strong consensus and enthusiasm for adopting the new digital framework. Their participation marked a collaborative shift toward digital readiness and highlighted the coal sector’s preparedness for the future.

Towards a Viksit Bharat Through Digital Coal Reforms

The launch and subsequent stakeholder engagement around the Exploration Module is part of the Ministry’s broader commitment to support the national agenda of ease of doing business and digital empowerment. By embedding transparency and automation into critical processes, the Ministry of Coal continues to pave the way for a more efficient, responsive, and digitally empowered ecosystem in natural resource governance.

With leadership support from senior officials like Rupinder Brar and Ajitesh Kumar, the coal ministry’s push for digital transformation sets a compelling example of policy innovation in action.