Coal and Lignite public sector undertakings (PSUs)—Coal India (CIL), (NLCIL), and Singareni Collieries Company (SCCL), are actively pursuing ecological reclamation of mined-out and barren coal mine lands.

Using scientific approaches, including biological and technical measures, these PSUs have progressively restored mined areas over the past five years, with detailed state-wise data maintained. For the financial year 2025-26, Coal and Lignite PSUs have set a target to reclaim and afforest 2,800 hectares of land in and around mining regions.

Innovative afforestation methods such as drone-based seed broadcasting, Miyawaki plantations, and seed ball broadcasting are being employed to restore biodiversity and soil health. Additionally, the Ministry of Coal is collaborating with the Ministry of Jal Shakti and state governments to utilise safe and treated mine water for domestic and irrigation purposes in surrounding communities.

PSUs have obtained no objection certificates (NoCs) from the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) for groundwater withdrawal in mining areas. Hydrological restoration efforts include rainwater harvesting, extensive plantations to manage runoff, and the construction of water management structures, turning reclaimed mine pits into water storage reservoirs.