Minister of State for Coal Pratik PrakashBapu Patil informed Rajya Sabha that the government decided to set up a Coal Regulatory Authority.

He said that the objectives and functions of the authority are to specify by regulation methods of testing for declaration of grades or quality of coal; to monitor and enforce closure of mines as per approved mine project plan towards closure of mine; to ensure adherence of approved mining plans; to specify the principles and methodology for determination of price of raw coal and washed coal or any other by-product generated during the process of washing.

Further, the authority would call for information, record or other documents from the entities and publish statistics and other data in relation to the coal industry. It would specify the standards of performance and norms of operational efficiency except in the area related to mines safety. The authority will have the power to adjudicate upon disputes between the parties.

The minister added that authority will also advise the Central Government in formulation of polices in coal sector, including allotment or earmarking of coal blocks for any purpose and promotion of competition, efficiency, economy and investment in coal industry.