Government would soon decide on whether to secure environment and forest clearances for the 54 coal blocks before auctioning them to power, steel and other firms. According to reports, government finds it preferable to secure green nod before auctioning these blocks in order to avoid delay in developing them.
Further, government would get a better price for these blocks in the auction once environment and forest clearances are in place.
The reports also suggest that the coal ministry would discuss the issue with the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF). Environment clea rance is offered by the Centre, while forest and land acquisition rights are taken from the states. Obtaining
green clearances and then going for auction may, however, lead to delays in the bidding process. The coal ministry may look at a model similar to the one governing the bidding for ultra mega power projects.
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