Meghalaya Pushes for Scientific and Sustainable Coal Mining: Conrad Sangma

Conrad Sangma has said that the Meghalaya government is continuing efforts to resolve long-standing issues surrounding coal mining and promote scientific, legally compliant mining practices in the state. He stated that the government is in constant discussion with the Centre and regulatory authorities to ensure mining activities can resume sustainably while meeting environmental and legal requirements.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the government aims to balance economic interests with environmental safeguards, particularly for thousands of people dependent on the coal sector for their livelihood. Meghalaya has been working to shift away from the controversial rat-hole mining system, which was banned by the National Green Tribunal in 2014 due to environmental and safety concerns.

Sangma said scientific mining would help revive economic activities in coal-bearing areas, create jobs, and improve infrastructure in remote regions. He also noted that ongoing development projects linked to mining areas could strengthen tourism connectivity and bring wider economic benefits to local communities.

Coal mining remains a politically and economically sensitive issue in Meghalaya, especially in districts like East Jaintia Hills where many families rely on the sector. The state government has already issued several mining licenses under the scientific mining framework as part of its gradual transition towards regulated and environmentally sustainable extraction practices.