Captive and commercial coal production rose by 11.58 per cent to 187.16 million tonnes (mn t) in fiscal year 2026 till February, data showed. Output in February stood at 20.49 mn t, contributing materially to the cumulative total. The rise reflected higher extraction from both captive and commercial mines. The figure encompasses both captive mines operated by industrial users and commercial mines supplying the market. The increase in production supported steady supplies to thermal power stations and industrial users, helping to meet domestic energy requirements. Operators reportedly benefited from improved mine access and logistics, while demand from industry remained resilient. The output pattern suggested a narrowing of the supply gap that has at times prompted additional imports. Improved connectivity and handling at dispatch points appeared to ease movement of coal to end users. The cumulative figure compared with about 167.78 million tonnes in the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, indicating a notable year on year improvement. February production accounted for roughly 10.95 per cent of the fiscal cumulative, underlining the significance of monthly deliveries to the overall tally. Momentum in the near term will depend on sustained mine performance and the stability of supply chains. Higher domestic output was likely to alleviate pressure on domestic inventories and could moderate price volatility in spot markets. Policymakers and market participants were likely to monitor the trend as it has implications for power sector planning and logistics investment. Continued output gains could help reduce import dependence and support energy security objectives, subject to operational and seasonal constraints. Stakeholders will observe coming months for indications that the trend is durable. Analysts were expected to watch mining efficiency and weather conditions as key factors that could affect monthly production trends.