Union Minister of Coal & Mines, G. Kishan Reddy informed that for the first time since Indian Independence, 10 mines were successfully closed using scientific planning. The Minister highlighted the importance of responsible mine closure and announced the adoption of the 6Rs Philosophy for mine closure: Reclamation, Repurposing, Rehabilitation, Revegetation, Remediation, and Relinquishment.  He was speaking at the Indian National Committee meeting of the World Mining Congress (WMC) in Hyderabad on Friday. The theme centred on sustainable mining and responsible practices through effective mine closure.

In his address, G. Kishan Reddy noted that since its inception in 1958, the World Mining Congress has served as an essential global platform for promoting collaboration and innovation in the mining sector. He emphasized that as the world transitions to greener mining practices, the role of WMC has become more significant than ever. He stated, “For India, sustainable mining aligns with our twin goals achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in mineral resources and maintaining our commitment to environmental sustainability.”

The Ministry has also revised guidelines to enhance the monitoring, administration, and implementation of mine closure plans. A new "RECLAIM Framework" was unveiled at the event to ensure meaningful community engagement and ecological restoration efforts.

Modi, Kishan Reddy stated that auction-based allocation of mineral blocks has made the sector more transparent and competitive, with over 500 mineral blocks auctioned to date. New policy measures have facilitated ease of doing business, including 50-year uniform leases, the elimination of lease renewal delays, and digital processing through a Single Window System.

India has achieved a historic milestone in coal production, surpassing one billion tonnes while reducing imports by 7.9% in 2025. The emphasis on a clean energy transition includes coal gasification, renewable energy diversification, and the eco-restoration of mined lands. Kishan Reddy noted the launch of the National Critical Minerals Mission and offshore mineral auctions, positioning India among a select group of countries developing domestic ecosystems for minerals such as lithium and rare earth elements.

He also unveiled Vision Plans for Strategic Minerals Aluminium and Copper to boost India's green growth and manufacturing ambitions for a sustainable future. Citing success stories like Cuddalore district in Tamil Nadu, where repurposed mines now provide drinking water and support agriculture, the Minister emphasized that once-exhausted mines are becoming engines of local development. G. Kishan Reddy called for stronger public-private partnerships and inclusive engagement with local communities, industry, and civil society to make mine closure more impactful and future-ready.

V.L. Kantha Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Mines; P.M. Prasad, Chairman & Managing Director of Coal India Limited; Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Coal; CMDs of Coal, Mines & Lignite public sector undertakings, officials from the coal and mine ministries, and various stakeholders from the mining industry participated.