Arunachal Pradesh has launched its first commercial coal mining operation at Namchik-Namphuk in Changlang district. The event was attended by Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Pema Khandu. Officials described the project as a major step in resource-based economic growth for the frontier state. The mine, located in Longtom under Kharsang subdivision, will formally operate under a mining lease and marks a new chapter in Arunachal Pradesh’s coal industry.
The inauguration included a ceremonial flag-off of operations and handover of the mining lease. Union Minister Reddy highlighted that the mine holds an estimated reserve of 1.5 crore tonnes of coal and is expected to generate over ₹100 crore in annual revenue for the state. He called the project a historic leap for Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing its potential to strengthen the state’s economic foundation and contribute to India’s energy security.
Reddy stated that all statutory and environmental clearances for the mine had been secured. Revenues from royalties, premiums, and contributions to the District Mineral Fund will directly benefit local communities. He also noted that coal remains a key source of energy in India, contributing approximately 74% of the country’s power generation. The Minister praised the government’s investment of nearly ₹6 lakh crore in the North East over the past decade to improve connectivity, infrastructure, and development.
Chief Minister Khandu said the project would create local jobs, support livelihoods, and strengthen the state’s economic base. He emphasized the importance of turning state resources into revenue for Arunachal Pradesh and revealed that five more mineral blocks have been tendered for exploration.
Khandu explained that coal was first discovered in the region by the British in 1865, but mining stopped in 1996 after the closure of the North Eastern Coalfield units. The inauguration of the Namchik-Namphuk mine marks the formal revival of coal mining in the state after nearly three decades.
The Chief Minister also highlighted that the MoU for the project includes Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments, focusing on education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for local villagers. Khandu stressed that decentralisation of power and local involvement are crucial for sustainable growth.
The mine will be operated by the Mahalaxmi Group, whose chairman, Naveen Singhal, outlined plans to set up coal-based allied industries in the region. These industries are expected to create employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for local youth, helping them gain skills and start businesses. Singhal mentioned that their first employee is a local woman from Miao, a trained zoologist, highlighting the company’s focus on empowering local talent.
Officials stated that the mine’s operations will benefit the local economy through job creation, infrastructure development, and revenue generation. The project is also expected to strengthen Arunachal Pradesh’s role in India’s energy sector, providing a steady supply of coal for industrial and domestic use.
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Reddy emphasized the strategic importance of the North East, saying, “Without the North East, India cannot develop.” He highlighted the government’s continuous efforts to make the region economically viable and connected to national growth initiatives. The launch of the Namchik-Namphuk coal mine is seen as part of this broader strategy to unlock natural resources responsibly and benefit local communities.
Officials also said that the project aims to implement environmentally sustainable practices in mining operations. The mine’s management has promised to adhere to strict environmental guidelines, including measures to reduce pollution and protect the surrounding ecosystem.
The inauguration ceremony included speeches from both government leaders and industry representatives, who commended the collaborative efforts between the state government, the central government, and private operators. They emphasized the need to balance economic growth with environmental protection and ensure that benefits reach local communities.
The project is expected to have long-term impacts on the state’s economy, including increased industrial activity, improved local infrastructure, and enhanced livelihood opportunities for residents. With the mine now operational, Arunachal Pradesh is poised to become a significant player in India’s coal sector, attracting more investors and boosting its economic profile.
Officials noted that the success of the Namchik-Namphuk mine could encourage further exploration of other mineral blocks in the state, contributing to sustainable economic growth in the North East. The mine is seen as a model project that combines industrial development with community welfare.
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