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:

The correct option is 1, 2 and 3.

Let us analyze the role and functions of the Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO) step-by-step to understand why this option is correct:

1. Major Source of Coal Statistics (Statement 1 is correct):
The Coal Controller’s Organization is the primary agency responsible for collecting, compiling, and publishing coal and lignite statistics in India. It acts as the official statistical authority for the coal sector under the Government of India, publishing key data such as the Coal Directory of India and the Provisional Coal Statistics.

2. Monitoring Captive Blocks (Statement 2 is correct):
The CCO is tasked with monitoring the progress of development and production of captive coal and lignite blocks allocated to various public and private sector undertakings. It ensures that the development of these blocks adheres to the prescribed milestones and schedules.

3. Hearing Objections to Acquisition (Statement 3 is correct):
Under the Coal Bearing Areas (Acquisition and Development) Act, 1957, the Coal Controller is vested with the statutory authority to hear and examine objections raised by landowners or interested parties regarding the Government's notification to acquire coal-bearing land. After hearing the objections, the Coal Controller submits a report with recommendations to the Central Government for a final decision.

4. Ensuring Delivery to End Users within Prescribed Time (Statement 4 is incorrect):
The CCO does not look after or regulate the day-to-day commercial distribution or ensure that coal mining companies deliver coal to end users within a prescribed time limit. The allocation and supply of coal are commercial transactions governed by Fuel Supply Agreements (FSAs) between coal companies (like Coal India Limited) and consumers, rather than being directly monitored for timely delivery by the CCO.

Therefore, statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct, making 1, 2 and 3 the correct answer.