Coal India Limited (CIL) has entered into a significant partnership with the Government of Madhya Pradesh to strengthen India’s presence in the critical minerals sector. On August 23, 2025, a Non-Binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Katni, Madhya Pradesh between Coal India, the Mineral Resources Development department of the state government (through the Directorate of Geology and Mining), and the Madhya Pradesh State Mining Corporation Limited.
The agreement is aimed at cooperation and collaboration in the exploration and exploitation of critical minerals and other mineral resources of mutual interest in Madhya Pradesh. This strategic move is expected to boost India’s mineral security and support industries dependent on these resources, including renewable energy, defense, and advanced manufacturing.
Coal India, known primarily for its role as the country’s largest coal producer, has been diversifying into new areas to align with India’s vision of self-reliance in critical minerals. Madhya Pradesh, on the other hand, is rich in mineral resources, making it a key hub for future exploration activities.
With this MoU, the stakeholders aim to leverage their expertise, resources, and infrastructure to identify and develop opportunities in the state’s mineral-rich regions.
