Arunachal Pradesh has officially opened its first commercial coal mine at Namchik-Namphuk, a landmark moment for the state’s economy. The inauguration took place in Longtom under Kharsang subdivision of Changlang district. Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy and Chief Minister Pema Khandu attended the event, which included the formal handover of the mining lease and a ceremonial flag-off of operations.
The mine, with an estimated 1.5 crore tonnes of coal, is expected to generate over ₹100 crore in annual revenue for the state. Minister Reddy called it a “historic leap” for Arunachal Pradesh’s coal industry. He confirmed that all necessary environmental and statutory clearances have been secured. Royalties, premiums, and contributions to the District Mineral Fund will directly benefit local communities and the state.
“Without the North East, India cannot develop,” Reddy said, highlighting coal’s importance to India’s energy sector, which relies on it for about 74% of power generation. He also noted that the Centre has invested nearly ₹6 lakh crore in the North East over the past decade to improve connectivity and infrastructure.
Chief Minister Khandu said the project will create local jobs, improve livelihoods, and strengthen the state’s economic base. “State resources must be turned into revenue,” he said. He added that five more mineral blocks have already been tendered for exploration. Khandu also pointed out that coal was first discovered in the area by the British in 1865, but mining stopped in 1996 after the closure of the North Eastern Coalfield units. “This marks the revival of coal mining in Arunachal Pradesh,” he said.
The project includes Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives focusing on education, healthcare, and employment for local villagers. “Decentralisation of power is key,” Khandu added.
Mahalaxmi Group Chairman Naveen Singhal, whose company will operate the mine, said the group plans to set up coal-based allied industries to create more jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for local youth. He also highlighted that the mine’s first employee is a local woman from Miao, a trained zoologist, reflecting the company’s focus on empowering local talent.
The opening of the Namchik-Namphuk coal mine marks a major step in harnessing Arunachal Pradesh’s mineral resources and boosting the state’s economic growth.
