07 July 2025 at 09:18 pm IST
The Ministry of Mines, in association with the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), hosted a national-level felicitation ceremony at the Rajasthan International Centre, Jaipur, to honor outstanding mines across India for their sustainability efforts under the Star Rating of Mines scheme. A total of 98 mines were felicitated for their performance during FY 2023–24, including three mines that received the prestigious 7-star rating and ninety-five mines that achieved 5-star ratings. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy (Chief Guest), Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, and Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey, along with senior officials like Sanjay Lohiya, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines. Launched in 2014–15, the Star Rating initiative evaluates mining operations through a Sustainable Development Framework, covering areas like environmental protection, scientific mining, resource efficiency, and socio-economic development. The goal is to encourage responsible mining while fostering inclusive growth in mineral-rich regions. The Ministry noted that the initiative has significantly influenced the mining community, fostering healthy competition, driving operational improvements, and motivating mine operators to adopt best practices. This recognition has not only improved mine management but also delivered tangible benefits to local communities and the broader mining ecosystem.