The Coal Controller Organisation (CCO), under the Ministry of Coal, received the SKOCH Gold Award 2026 for its SUVIKALP Initiative on 26 September 2026. The award was presented in the “Digital Operational Efficiency – Data Driven Decision Making” category. SUVIKALP is an in-house mine repurposing tool developed by CCO to support data-driven decisions on sustainable mine closure and the reuse of mined-out land.
Mine Closure and Land Repurposing
Mine repurposing refers to identifying suitable post-mining uses for land after mining operations end. Planning can account for environmental restoration, local social conditions, technical feasibility and economic prospects. SUVIKALP evaluates and ranks potential projects against technical, environmental, social and economic criteria. This process helps stakeholders compare project options using a common set of considerations. The initiative includes sustainable mine closure and the development of new economic opportunities on mined-out land. Its stated objectives also include environmental restoration and improved community well-being. These objectives connect land-use decisions after mining with environmental and community considerations.
SUVIKALP Tool and PRISM
SUVIKALP includes PRISM, or the Post-Mining Repurposing Implementation Strategy Model. PRISM provides project concepts, case studies and implementation approaches for mine repurposing. The material can be used by stakeholders considering possible post-mining projects and their implementation. The tool’s ranking function considers multiple criteria rather than assessing a project solely on economic grounds. Its technical, environmental, social and economic assessments form the basis for comparing proposed uses of mined-out land.
Digital Decision-Making and Recognition
The SKOCH Gold Award recognised SUVIKALP under the category “Digital Operational Efficiency – Data Driven Decision Making”. Nirutpal Singh and Ranvijay Kumar Singh of the Coal Controller Organisation were recognised as recipients for the SUVIKALP: Mine Repurposing Tool award in 2026. CCO also conducted the SUVIKALP Samvaad Webinar Series, comprising 12 thematic webinars. The series served as a knowledge-sharing initiative on mine repurposing and supported informed decision-making among stakeholders.
Important Facts for Exams
:
- CCO operates under the Ministry of Coal.
- SUVIKALP is an in-house mine repurposing tool developed by CCO.
- PRISM stands for Post-Mining Repurposing Implementation Strategy Model.
- The SUVIKALP Samvaad Webinar Series comprised 12 thematic webinars.
The award was presented on 26 September 2026 in the digital operational efficiency category. SUVIKALP assesses mine repurposing projects across four criteria: technical, environmental, social and economic.</numerusform
