Regulatory Update: Energy, Infrastructure, Mining & Environment Regulatory December 2025

1. Draft Guidelines on Mining Plan for Underground Coal and Lignite Gasification Blocks, 2025.¹ 

On 27^th October 2025, the Ministry of Coal initiated consultation with stakeholders on Mining Plan Guidelines for Coal and Lignite 2025 (“Guidelines”), inviting comments until 26^th November 2025. These Guidelines aim to optimise coal and lignite extraction using sustainable technology under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (“MMDR Act”). 

• Mining Plan Requirement: All coal or lignite gasification mines must prepare a mining plan founded on a pilot study assessing its feasibility, safety and environmental impact. The mining plan requires approval by the Coal Controller Organization (“CCO”).