The Ministry of Coal is set to launch a landmark Exploration Module on the Single Window Clearance System (SWCS) portal on 4 July 2025. Developed by the Central Mine Planning and Design Institute Limited (CMPDIL), the module represents a major leap in the digital transformation of India’s coal sector, enabling comprehensive online processing of exploration proposals.
This new module will serve as a one-stop platform covering the complete lifecycle of coal exploration. It includes the submission and approval of Geological Reports, vetting of exploration schemes, periodic progress updates, compliance submissions, and final approvals—all within a single digital interface. The platform ensures streamlined communication, structured timelines, real-time tracking, digital document management, and dashboard-based oversight, thereby reducing approval timelines and improving transparency.
The Exploration Module integrates best practices in e-governance and supports dynamic monitoring of coal resource assessments. It aligns exploration efforts with the Ministry’s coal block allocation strategies and overall operational goals, enhancing productivity and contributing to national energy security and sustainable development.
The SWCS portal was initially launched on 11 January 2021 as a unified digital gateway for coal stakeholders to obtain statutory clearances and approvals, such as Mining Plans, Environmental and Forest Clearances, Mining Leases, Land Acquisition, and Central Ground Water Clearances. The portal has been integrated with various central and state government agencies, thereby simplifying procedures and significantly improving the ease of doing business in the coal sector.
Several modules have already been implemented:
- Mining Plan Module (launched in 2021) allows online submission and approval of Mining and Mine Closure Plans. It has processed 108 out of 126 proposals with average timelines reduced from 9–12 months to 4.5 months.
- Mine Opening Permission (MOP) Module (launched 7 November 2024) facilitates real-time submission and approvals for initiating coal mining operations. Of the 27 proposals received so far, 19 have been approved.
- Project Information Management System (PRIMS) captures data related to CMDPA and Vesting Orders, clearance tracking, production reporting, and financial guarantees. A dedicated sub-module ensures timely redressal through direct interaction with the Nominated Authority.
Integration with PARIVESH 2.0 ensures seamless data exchange for Environmental, Forest, and Wildlife Clearances. Similarly, the SWCS now connects with the National Single Window System (NSWS) for harmonised registration and application processing across ministries.
The Registration Module enables users to create authorised accounts using verifiable credentials and coal block details. Once verified, applicants can submit, monitor, and download documents securely.
With the unveiling of the Exploration Module, the Ministry of Coal affirms its commitment to a digitally empowered and transparent coal ecosystem under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat mission. Stakeholders are encouraged to actively adopt these digital tools, and feedback is welcomed to further enhance the platform’s functionality and governance outcomes.
