Coal Ministry to Launch New Digital Module for Faster, Transparent Exploration Approvals

Mumbai, 01 July 2025: The Ministry of Coal will officially launch a dedicated Exploration Module on the Single Window Clearance System (SWCS) portal on 4 July 2025, aiming to digitise and streamline the entire coal exploration approval cycle. Developed by the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDIL), this digital interface is designed to simplify and accelerate proposal vetting, monitoring, and approval through a fully automated workflow.

The new system will support real-time tracking, digital documentation, and automated inter-agency communication all within a centralised dashboard.

Digital Platform Designed to Streamline Every Stage of Coal Exploration

The upcoming module is set to provide comprehensive digital support across all key phases of coal exploration:

• End-to-End Digital Workflow: Covers everything from scheme vetting and progress reporting to geological submissions and final approvals.
• Real-Time Monitoring: Proposals and communications can be tracked automatically.
• Dashboard-Based Transparency: Built-in dashboards help ensure timely processing and greater visibility for stakeholders.

According to the Ministry, the initiative represents a major shift towards transparent, efficient, and sustainable coal resource management in line with India’s long-term energy objectives.

SWCS Continues to Expand with Integrated Modules and Improved Efficiency

The Exploration Module is the latest addition to the SWCS platform, originally launched on 11 January 2021 to provide a single-window system for coal mining-related clearances.

Current Status of SWCS Modules

The SWCS has also been connected with platforms like the National Single Window System (NSWS) and PARIVESH 2.0, enhancing coordination across ministries for Mining Plans, Environmental Clearances (EC), Forest Clearances (FC), and Ground Water Approvals.

Significant Time Savings and Greater Clarity for Coal Block Stakeholders

The Ministry noted that the digitisation of approval processes through SWCS has already led to substantial time savings, cutting average processing time from 9–12 months to around 4.5 months. This has reduced the administrative burden and provided clarity to coal block allottees.

Key benefits for stakeholders include:

• Simplified Approvals: All major clearances under one unified interface
• Faster Turnaround: Drastically shorter timelines than traditional offline processes
• Improved Coordination: Integrated workflows across multiple agencies minimise delays

The Ministry is actively seeking feedback from coal block allottees to further enhance the module, reinforcing its focus on technology-enabled governance and stakeholder engagement.

About the Ministry of Coal

The Ministry of Coal, Government of India, oversees the exploration, development, and production of coal resources nationwide. It plays a vital role in executing strategic reforms aligned with the Digital India and Viksit Bharat 2047 missions, contributing significantly to India’s energy security and industrial growth.

REF: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2141102

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