The Ministry of Coal, on November 28, 2025, issued a notification regarding New Accredited Agencies to Speed up Coal Mine Exploration.
The following has been stated: -
•The Ministry of Coal has notified 18 additional QCI-NABET-accredited private agencies to fast-track coal and lignite exploration.
•This move gives coal block allottees more flexibility in selecting prospecting agencies and saves nearly six months previously needed for licensing.
•Expanded agency availability is expected to accelerate mine operationalization and improve national coal and lignite supply.
•The step strengthens India’s mineral exploration framework, supporting energy security and Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
The detailed notification is given in the document below.
[Notification No.:2195743]
