This is true. MeddleAPI[1] is the new hotness as it allows mods to be version-agnostic, however it's still early and there's little documentation. Mojang has been talking about potentially releasing some kit for modding for years, but with the C++ based "Minecraft Windows 10 Edition" out, I see little chance of that happening now.
I'm glad to see this though. I have been working on a file editor for minecraft[2] that might eventually work for keeping copies of docker logs, editing code or some such. Advanced VIM functions are not on my docket however. Baby steps.
Maybe more modders will move to mineTest if Microsoft/Mojang continues to sidestep the Minecraft modding community.
[1] http://www.minecraftforum.net/forums/mapping-and-modding/min...
[2] http://www.minecraftforum.net/forums/mapping-and-modding/min...