Namchik coal project: Villagers’ concerns to be addressed before mining, says PRA Nuravi director

Following the recent vesting order by the Ministry of Coal, Director of PRA Nuravi Coal Mining Pvt. Ltd., Ravi Ranjan Chaubey, visited the Namchik West Coal Block site in Kharsang and engaged with residents of Longtum 1 and Longtum 2 villages, underscoring the importance of relationship-building and community trust over immediate mining activity.

In his interaction with local media, Chaubey clarified that his visit was not related to operational mining activities, but rather to establish dialogue and foster mutual understanding between the company and local villagers. “I came here to meet the people and to understand the village atmosphere. It is a very positive village, and I am truly enjoying being here,” he said.

"Mining Is Not Immediate; Building Relationships Comes First"
Dispelling speculation about immediate mining operations, Chaubey noted, “Mining is very far away. First, we have to remove confusion and build a strong, transparent relationship between the company and the community. Once people are well informed, and their concerns addressed, only then can we consider the next steps.”

While acknowledging the presence of apprehensions and protests from some villagers over the proposed coal mining activities, he stressed that miscommunication and misinformation were at the core of the resistance. “People are scared. Many are being misled. Our job is to listen and clear doubts—not push an agenda,” he explained.

Chaubey asserted that any project approved by the Government of India comes with the objective of public welfare and long-term development. “We are here following the government’s guidelines. The aim is to improve livelihoods through better infrastructure—roads, schools, hospitals, electricity—and employment,” he added.

He expressed optimism about the potential economic upliftment mining could bring, stating, “There will be ample employment and increased per capita income. But before that, we must earn people’s trust.”

Chaubey also mentioned that unresolved issues would be taken up with the Ministry of Coal for clarification. “There are concerns that need policy-level discussion, and we will take those forward to the Coal Ministry. The villagers have been welcoming and respectful, and many have invited us again,” he said, confirming he would return for further engagement.

When asked about the feedback from his first interaction, Chaubey termed it a “positive response”, noting that even if 10 out of 100 people express happiness, it is a good starting point.

He concluded by reaffirming the company’s commitment to inclusive development: “If we can make people aware of how this project will benefit them, mining will become a secondary concern. Our first priority is the people.”