In November 2025, the Ministry of Coal announced the accreditation of 18 new private companies as Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs). This decision falls under the second proviso to sub-section (1) of section 4 of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. As a result, the total number of APAs recognized by the Ministry has increased to 45.
The primary goal of this initiative is to expedite the exploration and operationalization of coal mines in India. By recognizing these new agencies, the Ministry aims to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the coal sector, aligning with the national vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' or Self-Reliance.
The newly accredited agencies include:
The introduction of these new APAs is expected to significantly reduce project timelines by nearly six months. This improvement is largely due to the removal of the prior requirement for agencies to obtain a prospecting license. By leveraging private sector resources, the Government of India intends to foster efficiency and technological innovation in the exploration ecosystem.
Moreover, these agencies will play a critical role in preparing Geological Reports (GRs), which are essential for the auctioning of coal blocks. This strategic move not only enhances operational capabilities but also supports the government’s broader goals in the coal sector.
Q1. What are Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs)?
Answer: Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs) are private companies recognized by the Ministry of Coal to conduct exploration activities for coal and lignite mining, enhancing operational efficiency.
Q2. How many new APAs were notified in November 2025?
Answer: In November 2025, the Ministry of Coal notified 18 new Accredited Prospecting Agencies, raising the total number of APAs to 45.
Q3. What is the significance of these new APAs for India's coal sector?
Answer: These new APAs aim to reduce project timelines by eliminating the need for a prospecting license, thus promoting efficiency and technological innovation in coal exploration.
Q4. Which organization accredits these new APAs?
Answer: The Quality Council of India-National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (QCI-NABET) is responsible for accrediting these new Accredited Prospecting Agencies.
Q5. How do new APAs support coal block auctions?
Answer: New APAs assist in preparing Geological Reports (GRs), which are crucial for the auctioning process of coal blocks, thereby enhancing transparency and operational readiness.
Question 1: What is the total number of Accredited Prospecting Agencies (APAs) after the November 2025 notification?
A) 30
B) 45
C) 18
D) 60
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which act governs the notification of new Accredited Prospecting Agencies?
A) Mines Act, 1952
B) Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957
C) Coal Mines Nationalization Act, 1973
D) Environmental Protection Act, 1986
Correct Answer: B
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