The Government has recently introduced the Colliery Control (Amendment) Rules, 2025, aimed at simplifying the approval process for mining operations and strengthening the ease of doing business within the coal sector.

This amendment revises the 2004 framework to remove unnecessary procedural steps while keeping essential regulatory oversight intact. Under the previous rules, mine owners had to seek prior approval from the Coal Controller Organization for opening individual seams or sections of a mine. Additionally, approval was required if a mine had been idle for 180 days or more. The amended rules, issued on 23 December, 2025, now transfer the authority to approve mining activities to the concerned coal company’s board. However, the approval can only be granted after securing clearances from central and statutory bodies.

The Coal Controller Organization must still be notified about mine openings. “This reform places accountability at the highest corporate level, improving operational efficiency and boosting confidence in India’s coal sector.” This change is expected to reduce approval timelines by up to two months.