11 November 2026
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India’s Brown Coal Mission: MECL Launches Lignite Exploration in Rajasthan’s Poonam ki Dhani

MECL has started lignite exploration in Rajasthan’s Poonam ki Dhani block, furthering India’s energy self-reliance through scientific mineral development.
Indian Masterminds Stories

Jaisalmer – In a major stride toward securing India’s energy future, Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Limited (MECL) has launched lignite exploration at the Poonam ki Dhani Lignite Block in Rajasthan’s Barmer-Sanchor Basin. The block, situated in Jaisalmer district, marks a key development in MECL’s scientific and systematic approach to harnessing India’s lignite potential.

Boosting Energy Security Through Exploration

The ongoing exploration aligns with MECL’s broader mission of supporting India’s energy self-reliance by identifying and evaluating critical mineral reserves. Lignite, a low-grade brown coal, remains an essential resource for thermal power generation across the country.

MECL’s efforts span both Western basins—Barmer-Sanchor and Bikaner-Nagaur—as well as the Southern lignite-rich belt of Neyveli and adjoining regions. These regions are vital contributors to India’s lignite reserves, and MECL’s intervention is expected to enhance both reserve estimation and extraction potential.

Scientific Precision at the Core

For the Poonam ki Dhani project, MECL has mobilised specialised field teams equipped with advanced exploration technology. The teams will conduct rigorous geological, geophysical, and geochemical surveys, supported by MECL’s in-house laboratories. This ensures accuracy in data interpretation and strengthens the foundation for sustainable mining operations.

With an unwavering focus on quality and scientific integrity, MECL combines decades of technical expertise with state-of-the-art infrastructure to deliver actionable insights across India’s mineral sectors.

Also Read: NALCO Strengthens Rural Healthcare in Odisha with New OPD Facility at S&P Complex

A Strategic Role in India’s Resource Landscape

MECL’s work continues to play a pivotal role in the Ministry of Mines’ efforts to secure India’s mineral and energy resource base. The launch of lignite exploration in Rajasthan further demonstrates the company’s commitment to accelerating energy exploration with sustainability and precision.

By integrating field excellence with data-driven methodologies, MECL stands at the forefront of India’s march toward a secure, resource-optimised energy future.

About MECL

Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Limited (MECL), under the Ministry of Mines, is India’s premier agency for mineral exploration. With a legacy of over four decades, MECL leads scientific assessments across a wide spectrum of mineral resources—playing a key role in driving sustainable and data-backed growth of India’s mining and energy sectors.

Also Read: A Legacy of Loyalty: MECL Bids Farewell to Pulak Kumar Roy After 42 Years of Dedicated Service


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