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DGMS CMR 2026: Latest Changes in Coal Mines Regulations (CMR 2017) | Indian Minerology

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DGMS CMR 2026: Latest Changes in Coal Mines Regulations (CMR 2017)

DGMS CMR 2026: Latest Changes in Coal Mines Regulations Explained

DGMS CMR 2026: Latest Changes in Coal Mines Regulations (CMR 2017) | Indian Minerology

The Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) has introduced important updates under the Coal Mines Regulations, 2017 (CMR) during 2025–26 to strengthen safety, supervision, and statutory compliance in coal mines across India.

This article explains only the confirmed changes within CMR, without including draft rules or general safety circulars.

1. Amendment in Regulation 30 – Assistant Manager Provisions

DGMS has amended Regulation 30 of CMR 2017 through a Gazette Notification to revise requirements related to Assistant Managers.

Key Changes

  • The number of Assistant Managers is now linked to mine production and operational scale
  • High-production coal mines must deploy additional Assistant Managers
  • At least one Assistant Manager must hold a First Class Manager’s Certificate in large mines

Impact: This ensures stronger supervision, reduced managerial overload, and better control at working faces.

2. Stronger Enforcement of Supervisory Control

DGMS has emphasized stricter enforcement of existing supervisory provisions under CMR.

  • Mandatory shift-wise presence of statutory supervisory personnel
  • Clear accountability during DGMS inspections
  • Action against paper or dummy supervision

Impact: Mines must ensure actual deployment of qualified supervisory staff at all times.

3. Updates in Competency Certificate Process

Under CMR 2017, DGMS has updated procedures for statutory competency certificates such as:

  • Mine Manager
  • Assistant Manager
  • Overman
  • Sirdar
  • Winding Engine Driver

Key Updates

  • Standardized Computer Based Test (CBT)
  • Revised oral and practical examination guidelines
  • Stricter scrutiny of experience and eligibility documents

4. Digital Compliance Under CMR

DGMS is encouraging digital systems for effective implementation of CMR provisions:

  • Online submission of statutory returns
  • Electronic inspection records
  • Digital communication with mine management

Impact: Increased transparency and reduced compliance-related disputes.

5. Is CMR 2017 Replaced in 2026?

No.

  • CMR 2017 is still fully in force
  • Only selected regulations have been amended
  • No complete replacement has been notified yet

Future Coal Mines Regulations may be introduced under the OSH & WC Code, but until then, CMR 2017 remains legally applicable.

Conclusion

The latest DGMS CMR updates focus on improving supervisory strength, competency standards, and accountability rather than rewriting the entire regulation.

All coal mine owners, managers, and professionals must comply with these changes to avoid DGMS violations and ensure safer mining operations.

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