Lok Sabha on 4 March 2015 passed the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Bill, 2015. This bill will replace the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) second ordinance, 2014.
Key facts

• The bill has provisions for allocation of coal mines through a transparent bidding process i.e e-auction.
• The e-auction of coal blocks will ensure the continuity in coal mining operations and promoting optimum utilization of coal resources.
• Bill also facilitate e-auction of coal blocks for private companies for captive use and allot mines directly to state and central Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).