The coal ministry will launch the 15th round of commercial coal mine auction and organise a stakeholder consultation on Friday, as part of efforts to boost private sector participation in coal production amid rising energy demands.

The consultation, to be held in Mumbai, will bring together industry players, investors and state government representatives to discuss auction modalities, mining reforms and opportunities in the commercial coal block framework.

This tranche marks a significant development in the government's coal sector liberalisation drive, initiated in 2020, with 14 previous rounds offering over 100 blocks and attracting significant investments.

"The ministry of coal is set to organise a stakeholder consultation on 'Atmanirbhar Bharat: Coal for Energy Security', along with the launch of the 15th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auctions, on 17 April 2026," an official statement said.

Building on the success of commercial coal mine auctions, the coal ministry is advancing India's energy sector through greater production, efficiency and self-reliance.

The upcoming round of auction continues this progressive journey, offering coal mines under the most liberal terms to promote ease of doing business, attract diverse investments, and encourage wider industry participation, it said.

The latest auction will offer a fresh set of fully explored and partially explored coal blocks, inviting participation from experienced miners, new entrants, and technology-driven enterprises alike, the ministry statement said, adding that the move is expected to further energise the coal sector by fostering a vibrant and competitive ecosystem, while paving the way for enhanced investments, employment generation, and overall growth of the sectoral.

Published on April 16, 2026