India achieves record coal production of 893 million tonnes

In the fiscal year 2022-23, India's coal production reached an unprecedented 893.19 million tonnes, announced Pralhad Joshi, the Union Minister of Coal, Mines, and Parliamentary Affairs. This surge is part of the country's strategic efforts to boost output, diminish reliance on imports, and address the escalating domestic demand. Compared to the preceding year's 778.21 million tonnes, this production milestone represents a substantial increase, as detailed in Minister Joshi's written response to the Rajya Sabha. Notably, in the current fiscal year up to November 2023, approximately 591.40 million tonnes of coal have been produced, reflecting a 13% rise compared to the corresponding period last year. Joshi credited this growth to various governmental initiatives designed to attain coal self-sufficiency in India. These measures encompass transparent auctions for commercial mining, consistent reviews expediting coal block development, and legislative adjustments allowing captive mine owners to sell a portion of their production in the open market. Highlighting technological advancements in both underground and open-cast mining, Joshi emphasised Coal India Limited's adoption of mass production technologies and the planning of large-capacity underground mines where feasible. Additionally, the government has prioritised enhancing coal evacuation and distribution capabilities. Minister Joshi reported that 67 first-mile connectivity projects with an 885 million tonne capacity are underway, aiming to achieve mechanised handling of 1 billion tonne of coal. The emphasis on bolstering domestic coal production has also resulted in a reduction in coal imports. For the year 2023-24 (up to September), coal imports amounted to 125.21 million tonnes, indicating a 5.04% decrease compared to the previous year, according to Joshi.