In its report on India’s coal sector, Pune-based non-governmental organisation (NGO) Prayas Energy Group has made a strong pitch for the setting up of an independent regulator to improve the performance and accountability of coal companies and provide a level-playing field. An independent regulator, however, needs to be responsible not only for issues such as pricing, quality and contract adherence, but also meeting production targets, safety, mine restoration and compliance to environmental norms.