Coal India plans private mining consultancy foray

Its subsidiary CMPDI engages with oil ministry and has been getting consultancy orders from pvt cos

The projected liberalisation of the coal sector to private commercial miners later this year has opened new scope for Coal India, of late on a diversification mode.

The government-owned entity has been engaging its subsidiary, Central Mine Planning and Design Institute (CMPDI) to execute services in exploration, mine planning & design and other mining needs. It now feels the latter can also play the role of a key mining consultant for state and private companies in a liberalised regime.

As a result, it is preparing its consultancy arm to expand its horizon, not only in private coal mining but to venture into