Chhattisgarh Ministers Focus on Modernizing Mining Sector

Chhattisgarh's Mining Review Meeting

On Tuesday, Union Minister G Kishan Reddy and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai convened at the Chief Minister's residence to assess the state’s mining and coal sectors. Central topics included mineral exploration, refining coal production, and leveraging District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds effectively.

Key Discussions

The productive meeting explored various aspects, including the auctioning of mineral blocks and the integration of advanced technology in mining practices. An emphasis was placed on ensuring that the benefits of local mineral wealth extend to nearby communities affected by mining.

Chief Minister Sai articulated that Chhattisgarh's mineral assets are vital for national industrial growth and economic prosperity. He reiterated the state's commitment to managing these resources responsibly and transparently, in collaboration with the central government. “We must ensure that mineral wealth leads to employment and enhances the livelihoods of tribal and mining-affected communities,” he emphasized.

Technology-Driven Initiatives

Projects like Khanij Online 2.0 and drone surveillance have been introduced to boost transparency and combat illegal mineral activities. Sai discussed these innovations, highlighting the importance of advancing environmental sustainability while also contributing significantly to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Additionally, the Chief Minister mentioned the TIN (Tribal Incentives on Natural Resources) portal, developed in partnership with Indian Overseas Bank. This platform ensures fair pricing for tin ore sourced from Bastar's tribal populations, facilitating transparency in procurement processes.

Ministerial Praise and Recommendations

During the meeting, Minister Reddy praised the state’s adoption of technology-focused reforms and commended efforts made to boost mineral revenues. He highlighted the need for proper utilization of DMF funds, directing investments towards education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements for communities surrounding mining sites.

Reddy encouraged rapid exploration of critical minerals such as lithium, graphite, and rare earth elements, advocating for the modernization of procedures and faster operationalization of auctioned mineral blocks. He underscored the importance of using innovative technologies for identifying new mineral reserves and ensuring proper closure and restoration of mining areas while considering ecological stability and local community needs.

Chhattisgarh's Mineral Revenue Growth

According to the Directorate of Geology and Mining, Chhattisgarh recorded mineral revenues amounting to ₹16,738 crore during the fiscal year 2025-26. Significant increases in coal, iron ore, limestone, and tin production were noted.

The meeting also reviewed ongoing mining operations and the status of coal blocks, emphasizing the need for enhanced production capabilities and infrastructural improvements. Coordination across various departments was urged to mitigate any production bottlenecks.

Recent Developments in Tin Procurement

A separate discussion involved South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) regarding coal production metrics and operational concerns in mining projects, with district collectors participating via video conference. The meeting also highlighted advancements made on the TIN portal, which digitizes the tin ore procurement process for tribal communities, ensuring pricing aligns with the London Metal Exchange and facilitating direct bank transfers for beneficiaries.

In the fiscal year 2024-25, the state government approved more than 8,707 kilograms of tin ore, generating nearly ₹90.82 lakh. For 2025-26, tin procurement surged to over 20,895 kg, resulting in payments around ₹3.81 crore—an increase more than four times what tribal collectors received previously. Currently, tin ore is procured at six centers in Dantewada and Sukma districts, with plans to open three additional centers that emphasize efficient registration and real-time monitoring through the digital platform.

Future Initiatives and Community Development

Discussions also included plans to exploit columbite resources in Bastar, fostering sustainable livelihoods for tribal communities via responsible mineral development practices. The ultimate goal of the initiatives discussed is to create a balanced approach that not only increases production but also enhances community well-being and environmental stewardship.