SECL Identifies 7 Mine Dumps for Rare Earth Elements Extraction

South Eastern Coalfields Ltd. (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Ltd., has identified seven mine dumps for potential extraction of rare earth elements (REEs), marking a significant step in India’s push toward critical mineral self-reliance. The move aligns with the Centre’s broader strategy to unlock value from coal mine waste and reduce dependence on imports, particularly from China.

SECL Chairman and Managing Director Harish Duhan confirmed that the tendering process for exploration has already commenced. The company aims to scientifically assess the identified sites within the next year to determine their economic viability.

Government Push to Unlock Coal Mine Waste

The initiative follows guidance from the Ministry of Coal to explore the presence of trace rare earth elements in overburden dumps. This includes materials typically discarded during coal mining operations. 

The targeted dumps are located in SECL’s operational regions across Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.

Scientific Assessment and Exploration Plans

SECL plans to undertake detailed scientific studies using advanced geophysical and geochemical techniques to assess the concentration and commercial feasibility of REEs in the identified dumps.

If viable deposits are confirmed, the company may move toward pilot extraction projects before scaling up to commercial operations. The approach reflects a structured, data-driven strategy to repurpose mining waste into a high-value resource.

Strategic Importance of Rare Earth Elements

Rare earth elements are critical for manufacturing high-tech products such as electric vehicles, renewable energy equipment, defence systems and advanced electronics. With China dominating global supply chains, India has accelerated efforts to secure domestic sources of these strategic minerals.

The identification of REEs in coal overburden presents an opportunity to reduce import dependence while enhancing resource efficiency in the mining sector.

Read more: Natco Pharma Share Price Jumps 11% in 4 Sessions on Semaglutide Approval.

Conclusion

SECL’s initiative signals a strategic shift toward value extraction from mining by-products and strengthens India’s critical minerals roadmap. If successful, the project could not only diversify revenue streams for Coal India but also bolster India’s ambitions for technological and industrial self-reliance.

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