SECL Explores Rare Earths in Coal Mine Waste | India’s Path to Critical Minerals

New Delhi: In a bold move to diversify beyond coal, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) has announced plans to explore rare earth elements (REEs) from seven coal mine overburden dumps across its operational areas. The initiative could transform mining waste into a strategic resource for India’s growing high-tech and clean energy sectors.

SECL, a key arm of Coal India Limited, has started the tendering process to appoint specialized agencies for scientific assessment, with studies expected to conclude within the next 12 months.

Why Rare Earths Matter for India’s Future

Rare earth elements are critical for technologies driving the modern economy, including:

• Electric vehicle (EV) motors

• Wind turbines and renewable energy solutions

• Advanced batteries and electronics

• Defense systems and missiles

• Semiconductors

Currently, India relies heavily on imports for many REEs, creating supply chain vulnerabilities. SECL’s initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to enhance domestic critical mineral production and reduce dependency on imports.

Focus on Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh

The seven identified overburden dumps are located in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, regions with extensive coal mining history. By tapping previously disturbed land instead of opening new mines, SECL aims to:

• Minimize environmental impact

• Convert mining waste into a potential revenue stream

• Support India’s tech sovereignty and green transition

A Strategic Shift for Coal India

This project signals a broader transformation within Coal India’s ecosystem. While coal remains the core business, the exploration of critical minerals indicates a pivot toward:

• Diversified mining and resource management

• Supporting India’s Make in India and Net Zero initiatives

• Creating high-value opportunities from legacy mining operations

Harish Duhan, SECL’s Chairman & Managing Director, stated that the project is in its exploration phase, with commercial extraction contingent upon scientific findings.

Project Snapshot: SECL Rare Earth Initiative

• Company: South Eastern Coalfields Limited

• Parent Company: Coal India Limited

• Sites Identified: 7 overburden dumps

• Locations: Chhattisgarh & Madhya Pradesh

• Current Stage: Tendering and scientific assessment

• Timeline: Expected completion of study within 12 months

If successful, this initiative could turn mining waste into a strategic national asset, boosting India’s domestic REE supply and strengthening the country’s role in the global critical minerals market.