India’s coal industry is witnessing a transformative phase, marked by remarkable achievements and a commitment to sustainable mining practices under the visionary leadership of Union Minister of Coal, Mines, and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Pralhad Joshi. At the launch function of the 9th round of commercial coal mine auctions, Shri Joshi highlighted the monumental strides made by the nation in increasing domestic coal production, significantly reducing coal imports for the power sector.
The Minister’s announcement that coal imports for the power sector are projected to plummet to a mere 2 percent by 2025 is a testament to India’s burgeoning self-sufficiency in coal production. Acknowledging the commendable performance of Coal India Ltd and its subsidiaries in achieving record coal production and uptake, Shri Joshi emphasized the likelihood of surpassing the historic milestone of one billion tonnes in coal production this year.
Shri Joshi spotlighted India’s emergence as a global leader in emissions containment through sustainable coal mining practices. A substantial incentive of Rs. 6000 crore has been allocated for coal gasification, further demonstrating the nation’s commitment to eco-friendly mining. The Minister highlighted the proactive steps taken by coal Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) by planting 100 million saplings, contributing significantly to environmental conservation.
The 9th round of commercial coal mine auctions includes 31 mines spread across coal-rich states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana, promising new avenues for investments and employment generation, both directly and indirectly. The revenue generated from these auctions will bolster the socio-economic development of these states.
India, possessing a colossal coal reserve of 344.02 billion tonnes, stands as the world’s second-largest coal producer. Given that 72% of the country’s electricity is coal-generated, the coal sector holds immense strategic importance in fueling India’s rapid economic growth. The auctioned mines are estimated to generate an annual revenue of approximately Rs. 33,343 crore and employ around three lakh individuals directly and indirectly.
Shri Joshi also felicitated outstanding coal and lignite mines with Star Rating Awards as part of Special Campaign 3.0, aimed at promoting cleanliness and expediting processes. This acknowledgment aims to encourage superior performance and responsible mining practices across the sector.
Moreover, reforms implemented by the Ministry of Coal have fostered sustainable coal production, and the Star Rating Policy, initiated in 2019, has significantly elevated performance and sustainability standards in coal and lignite mining nationwide.
The culmination of Special Campaign 3.0 saw the Coal Ministry and its CPSEs achieving a 100% success rate in addressing public grievances and repurposing mining scrap materials into innovative sculptures and artifacts, illustrating their commitment to responsible resource utilization.
Shri Pralhad Joshi’s leadership underscores India’s commitment to sustainable mining practices, achieving self-sufficiency in coal production, and driving the nation towards a cleaner and brighter energy future while simultaneously fostering economic growth and social development.