Shillong: Meghalaya took a significant step towards reviving its coal mining industry on Monday, as Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated the state's first scientific coal mining block at 'Saryngkham-A' in East Jaintia Hills district.

This development comes after a decade-long ban on rat-hole mining imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2014.

The NGT had banned rat-hole coal mining due to environmental concerns, particularly river acidification caused by mining activities. The ban had severely impacted the livelihoods of people directly and indirectly connected to the coal industry, causing significant financial hardships.

Sangma acknowledged the challenges faced by the state and its citizens, stating that the last 10-11 years have been particularly difficult. He congratulated stakeholders, including officials, mine owners, and lease applicants, for their contributions to making scientific mining a reality in Meghalaya.

The chief minister stated that the government's efforts will now focus on ensuring that other applicants receive mining permissions and can commence scientific mining operations. He further said that the state's unique land rights and landholding systems presented additional challenges, but expressed optimism about the future of Meghalaya's coal mining industry.

Sutnga Saipung MLA Santa Mary Shylla expressed hope that the state can achieve its goal of becoming a USD 10 billion economy by 2028 under Sangma's leadership.