Coal Ministry Reviews Status of Operational and Non-Operational Coal Mines to Boost Domestic Production

During the meeting, Shri Nagaraju commended the efforts of the allottees for their increased coal production and urged them to intensify efforts to meet the coal production targets set for FY 2024-25.

Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority of the Ministry of Coal, Shri M. Nagaraju, chaired a pivotal meeting on 1st July 2024 in New Delhi to review the status of "producing and expected to produce" and "non-operational" captive and commercial coal mines. This comprehensive review underscores the government's commitment to enhancing domestic coal production.

During the meeting, Shri Nagaraju commended the efforts of the allottees for their increased coal production and urged them to intensify efforts to meet the coal production targets set for FY 2024-25. He also emphasized the need for allottees to take necessary steps to operationalize coal blocks that are in advanced stages of development.

As of 30th June 2024, there are 54 captive/commercial coal mines under production. Of these, 32 mines are allocated to the power sector, 12 to the non-regulated sector, and 10 mines are designated for the sale of coal. Additionally, eleven mines are expected to commence coal production in FY 2025. Current coal production from these mines stands at 39.53 million tonnes (MT), reflecting an impressive 35% year-on-year growth.

Furthermore, 65 non-operational coal blocks are in various stages of obtaining regulatory clearances. These blocks are spread across nine states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and West Bengal.

This high-level meeting highlights the Ministry's proactive approach in monitoring and optimizing coal production to meet the nation's energy demands. The review of both operational and non-operational mines indicates a strategic focus on maximizing resources and addressing any hurdles in coal extraction.