Centre defends Tara coal block auction after state clearance

The Coal Ministry has defended its decision to auction the Tara coal block, stating that the move followed formal approval from the Chhattisgarh government regarding the project's environmental clearance status. According to the ministry, state authorities confirmed in December 2025 that the block was situated outside the Lemru Elephant Corridor, a key wildlife conservation area.

The clarification addresses longstanding concerns about the coal block's location and potential impact on elephant migration routes and habitat in Chhattisgarh. The Lemru Elephant Corridor is a critical passage for wildlife movement in the region and has been flagged by environmental groups as an area requiring strict protection.

By anchoring the auction decision to the state government's written confirmation, the Centre has sought to establish that proper environmental protocols were followed before proceeding with the commercial bidding process. The ministry's statement underscores the coordination required between central and state authorities in mining projects that touch on wildlife conservation issues.

The Tara block auction marks the continued momentum in the government's push to expand domestic coal production and reduce dependence on imports. However, the project had attracted scrutiny from environmental advocates concerned about its proximity to elephant corridors and potential impacts on biodiversity in central India.