Facts on Auction of Tara (Revised) Coal Block
The Ministry of Coal clarified that recent media reports on the auction of the Tara Coal block are misleading and omit key developments since 2023. The block was initially excluded due to its overlap with the Lemru elephant corridor following a request by the Chhattisgarh government, but was later re-included and successfully auctioned in the 15th round after the state confirmed it lies outside the corridor and boundary revisions were made.
Why It Matters
This press release deals with government coal block auctions and policies involving the Ministry of Coal, which is relevant for candidates preparing for competitive exams like UPSC, State-PSC, and SSC focusing on national governance and economic updates.
In Simple Words
Recent media reports regarding the auction of the Tara Coal block are misleading and ignore important developments from 2023 to 2026. Initially, the block was removed from commercial auctions in 2023 following a request from the Chhattisgarh government due to overlaps with the Lemru elephant corridor.
Later, based on a letter from the Chhattisgarh government dated December 11, 2025, confirming the block is outside the corridor, and after boundary revision by CMPDIL, it was auctioned under the 15th round. It received 9 bids, a 37.50% revenue share, over Rs 1200 crores in annual state revenue, and employment for over 8000 people.
Key Points
- Media reports on the auction of the Tara Coal block are described as misleading and incomplete.
- The Tara coal block offered under the 7th Tranche in 2023 was removed due to a letter from the Government of Chhattisgarh concerning the Hasdeo Arand area.
- Coal blocks overlapping with the Lemru elephant corridor were excluded from subsequent auction tranches.
- A letter dated 11.12.2025 from the Government of Chhattisgarh requested the inclusion of the Tara coal block, stating it is outside the Lemru Elephant Corridor.
- The block was auctioned under the 15th round of commercial coal mine auction after removing the influence zone of the Lemru Elephant Corridor.
- A total of 9 bids were received for the coal block under the 15th round.
- The block was auctioned at a revenue share of 37.50%.
- The Coal Block is expected to generate annual revenue of more than Rs 1200 crores and employment for more than 8000 people.
Exam Angle
A. 15th round
Source: Press Information Bureau