Sun Sep 07 06:44:40 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text, aiming for a concise and informative piece:

**NLC India Mines Shine in National Coal Ministry Star Rating Survey**

**CUDDALORE, September 7, 2025** – Lignite and coal mines operated by NLC India Limited (NLCIL) have been recognized for excellence in a recent survey conducted by the Union Coal Ministry. The star rating policy recognizes coal and lignite sector entities and enhances performance and sustainability.

In the 2023-24 survey, Lignite Mine 1A in Neyveli, along with the Talabira II and III coal mines in Odisha, and the Barsingar lignite mine in Rajasthan, all achieved the top five-star rating. NLCIL’s Lignite Mines I and II in Neyveli secured a four-star rating.

The Star Rating system which was established in 2018-19, NLCIL’s operating mines have collectively achieved 29 Star Ratings, including 21 Five-Star recognitions. NLCIL stands out nationally by securing the highest proportion of Five-Star ratings. The Ministry of Coal awards are based on seven key criteria, including mining operations, environmental performance, technology adoption, economic performance, rehabilitation efforts, employee welfare, and safety & security. High-level teams conduct thorough inspections of each mine to determine the ratings.

Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy and Minister of State for Coal and Mines Satish Chandra Dubey presented the awards in Mumbai. The policy aims to foster transparency, accountability, and competition, while promoting best practices in environmental management and operational efficiency.

NLCIL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, emphasized the company’s commitment to safety, sustainability, and technology-driven productivity. He added that NLCIL is working towards doubling its mining capacity in the next five years and setting new benchmarks in sustainable mining practices.

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