The Coal Ministry focuses on reducing imports and increasing domestic coal production to achieve energy self-reliance.
Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy emphasised the ministry’s commitment to reducing coal imports and strengthening domestic production. Addressing the media in New Delhi, he highlighted India’s push towards self-reliance in the coal sector. Officials from the Coal Ministry and PIB were also present.
Between April and November 2024, coal imports dropped by 5.35%, saving ₹30,007 crore. Imports for power plant blending declined by 23.56%. Under ‘Mission Coking Coal,’ domestic coking coal production aims to reach 140 MT by 2029-30, reducing reliance on imports for steelmaking.
India’s coal production hit a record 997.82 MT in FY 2023-24, growing at a CAGR of 5.64% over a decade. The introduction of commercial coal auctions in 2020 has attracted private players, with 184 mines allotted and 65 operational. Sustainability efforts include afforestation and coal gasification projects. The ministry remains committed to ensuring energy security through policy reforms and modernization.
