In a significant move towards enhancing India’s coal production, Shri. M Nagaraju, Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority at the Ministry of Coal, led a high-level meeting on January 3, 2024. The primary agenda was to review the status of both producing and anticipated captive and commercial coal mines. During the meeting, Shri. Nagaraju commended the efforts of allottees for the commendable increase in coal production. He also advised them to intensify their efforts to meet the committed coal production targets for the fiscal year 2023-24.
A key emphasis during the meeting was on operationalizing coal blocks that are in the advanced stages of operationalization. Shri. Nagaraju stressed the importance of taking necessary steps to ensure the efficient functioning of these blocks, contributing to the overall growth of the coal sector.
As of December 31, 2023, there are 50 captive and commercial coal mines under production. Among them, 32 mines are allocated to the power sector, 11 to the non-regulated sector, and seven mines are earmarked for the sale of coal. Remarkably, within three and a half years after the commencement of the commercial coal mines auction in 2020, six mines with a cumulative peak-rated capacity (PRC) of 14.87 million tonnes (MT) have already initiated production.
In December 2023, the total coal production from captive and commercial coal mines witnessed a notable increase, reaching 14.04 MT, marking a 38% surge from the 10.14 MT recorded in the same month of the previous year. Concurrently, the total coal dispatch from these mines rose by 39%, reaching 13.32 MT compared to 9.58 MT in December 2022. The average daily coal dispatch in December 2023 reached 4.3 lakh tonnes per day, showcasing the industry’s efficiency and productivity.
The cumulative data for the period from April 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, reveals a robust growth trajectory in coal production and dispatch. The total coal production from captive and commercial coal mines during this period was approximately 98 MT, while the total coal dispatch reached 103 MT. This signifies a year-on-year growth of 26% and 32%, respectively, compared to the same period in FY 2022-23.
Notably, the Non-Regulated Sector and Commercial coal mines exhibited the highest increase in coal production, recording a growth of 98% and 101%, respectively. This underlines the diversified growth within the sector and the positive impact of strategic allocations.
The Ministry of Coal is steadfast in its commitment to maintaining and even accelerating this momentum. By aiming for ambitious production and dispatch targets, the Ministry seeks to secure a steady supply of coal, thereby safeguarding India’s energy future and contributing significantly to the nation’s economic growth. The concerted efforts and achievements underscore the pivotal role of the coal sector in India’s energy security landscape.
