CIL urged to prioritise coal production to reduce imports: Minister G Kishan Reddy

08 Nov 2024 CW Team

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy has called on Coal India Limited (CIL) to focus on ramping up domestic coal production and scaling up supply to reduce the country’s dependency on coal imports. CIL, which accounts for over 80% of India's domestic coal output, was highlighted as key to India’s energy security.

Speaking on the occasion of CIL’s 50th Foundation Day, Reddy praised the company’s efforts to improve workers' welfare, particularly through the introduction of Performance Linked Incentives for contractual workers, effective FY 2023-24.

The launch of commercial coal mining has brought transparency and ease of doing business to the sector, and Reddy expressed confidence that CIL has the capacity to compete in an open market environment. He also acknowledged the company’s diversification initiatives, including the establishment of a thermal power plant and its exploration into critical mineral acquisition.

Reddy emphasized that while coal will remain essential for India's energy needs, the country is making significant investments in renewable energy and addressing climate change. Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt noted that CIL’s coal stocks at power plants have risen to 31.6 MT, a 68% increase from the previous year, primarily driven by CIL’s contributions.

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