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 Coal Controller Organisation (CCO) was established in 1916.

Key functions of the CCO include:

• Being the major source of Coal Statistics for the Government of India.
• Monitoring the progress of the development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks.
• Hearing objections related to the Government's notification on the acquisition of coal-bearing areas.
• Laying down procedures for coal sampling.
• Inspecting collieries.
• Issuing directives for coal grading.
• Acting as an appellate authority in disputes.

Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 4 is incorrect because ensuring coal delivery to end users within a prescribed time is not explicitly listed as a core function of the CCO.

Hence, option (a) is the correct answer.