India’s April-August 2024 Coal Production Rises Despite August Dip

India's coal production grew by 6.36% to 384.07 MT between April and August 2024. However, production in August 2024 dropped to 62.67 MT. During the same period, coal supply increased by 5.17% to 412.69 MT, despite a slight dip in August. Supply to the power sector and stock levels rose substantially.

India's coal production witnessed a 6.36% rise, reaching 384.07 million tonnes (MT) from April to August 2024, compared to 361.11 MT in the same timeframe the previous year, according to the Ministry of Coal's latest statement. Despite the overall growth, August 2024 saw a minor dip in output, recording 62.67 MT, down from 67.76 MT in August 2023.

Analyzing coal supply trends from April to August 2024, the country observed a 5.17% increase, with total supplies amounting to 412.69 MT, up from 392.40 MT in the corresponding period last year. However, a slight reduction was noted in August 2024, where the supply decreased to 69.94 MT compared to 75.19 MT in August 2023. The shortfall is attributed to above normal precipitation impacting mining and transportation.

Coal supply to the power sector remains a critical focus, with deliveries rising by 4.13% to 338.75 MT between April and August 2024, versus 325.33 MT last year. August 2024 recorded a supply of 58.07 MT to the sector, slightly lower than 61.43 MT in August 2023. Significantly, coal stock levels at thermal power plants surged by 32.08% to 37.18 MT as of August 31, 2024, reflecting the Ministry of Coal's commitment to maintaining robust production and supply to meet the nation's energy needs amidst operational challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)