In India, what is the role of the Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO)?

UPSC Prelims 2022 Question:

In India, what is the role of the Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO)?

1. CCO is the major source of Coal Statistics in Government of India.
2. It monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks.
3. It hears any objection to the Government’s notification relating to acquisition of coal-bearing areas.
4. It ensures that coal mining companies deliver the coal to end users in the prescribed time.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

a) 1, 2 and 3

b) 3 and 4 only

c) 1 and 2 only

d) 1, 2 and 4

Correct Answer: Option a) 1,2 and 3 only

Learn more about the role of Coal Controller’s Organisation from the given explanation below.

Explanation:

• Under Collection of Statistics Act, 2008 - Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO) has been made the statistical authority with respect to coal and lignite statistics. Entrusted the responsibility of carrying out Annual Coal & Lignite survey and publishing of Provisional Coal Statistics and Coal Directory of India. It also monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks. So, statement 1 and statement 2 are correct. 
• Under Coal Bearing Area (Acquisition and Development) Act, 1957- CCO is the competent authority under this act to hear any objection to the Central Government’s Notification relating to acquisition of coal bearing land and to furnish his reports to Central Govt. So, statement 3 is correct.
• CCO is not mandated to ensure that coal mining companies deliver the coal to end users in the prescribed time. So, statement 4 is not correct. 

Responsibilities of Coal Controller’s Organization

The CCO's key responsibilities include:

• Establishing and enforcing standards for coal grades and sizes: The CCO sets standards for coal classification and compels all collieries to adhere to these standards.
• Maintaining coal grade consistency: The CCO conducts regular inspections to ensure that collieries maintain consistent coal grades and sizes.
• Resolving disputes between consumers and mine owners: The CCO acts as a conciliator in case of disputes arising between coal consumers and mine owners regarding coal quality or quantity.
• Regulating coal stock disposal and production monitoring: The CCO monitors coal stock disposal and mine production to ensure efficient utilization and prevent shortages.
• Enforcing coal excise tax collection: The CCO ensures that all parties involved in coal transactions pay the applicable excise taxes.
• Collecting and reporting coal production data: The CCO collects monthly coal production data from all collieries and submits it to relevant state and central ministries.
• Granting permission for mine openings, closures, and reopenings: The CCO's approval is mandatory for opening, closing, or reopening any mine or a section of a mine.
• The CCO's work is crucial for ensuring a fair and efficient coal market in India.

Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.

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