South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) reported coal production of 167.7 million tonnes (mn t) as of March 18, marking around six per cent growth over the corresponding period last year. The company also achieved an offtake of 171.3 million tonnes (mn t) as of March 17, representing four point five per cent increase compared with the previous fiscal period. These figures indicate that production and dispatch have surpassed last year’s totals.

SECL is the only subsidiary of Coal India Limited to record concurrent growth in coal production, offtake and overburden removal during the period under review. The company recorded overburden removal of 350 million cubic metres, which is expected to support higher output in the coming months. The expansion reflects sustained operational momentum and targeted deployment of resources.

Strong performance from mega projects underpinned the gains, with Gevra producing 51.7 million tonnes (mn t), Dipka 36.5 million tonnes (mn t) and Kusmunda 30.7 million tonnes (mn t). Other operational areas, including Central India Coalfields, Raigarh and Korba, also contributed significantly to overall production. Management attributed the rise to improved project execution and enhanced dispatch planning.

Operating across Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, SECL remains the second largest coal producing company in India and contributes around 17-18 per cent of the country's total coal output. Company leadership said efforts are focused on maintaining uninterrupted coal supplies to support energy security and to meet rising demand. Strategies are in place to further enhance production and dispatch ahead of the anticipated surge in power demand during the summer season. The offtake performance demonstrates increased market absorption and positions the company to manage seasonal requirements.