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National
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Coking Coal declared Critical Mineral
📅 Published 31 Jan 2026 · January 2026
Coking Coal declared Critical Mineral
- Notified under MMDR Act, 1957 (First Schedule amendment).
- Reason: India has 37.37 billion tonnes reserves (mainly Jharkhand; also MP, WB, Chhattisgarh) yet ~95% import-dependent; imports rose 51.2 MT (2020-21) → 57.8 MT (2024-25).
- Amendment: "Coal" → "Coal, including Coking Coal" (Part A); added to Part D (critical & strategic minerals).
- Royalty/auction premium continues to states even if Centre conducts auction (Sec 11D(3)).
📝 Relevant Exams:
UPSC