Rising Coal Imports and India's Path to Energy Self-Sufficiency

Coal imports in India rose by 2.2% in the April-August period, reaching 111.20 million tonnes. This contrasts with a 10.3% drop in the non-regulated sector. Efforts to boost domestic production aim to decrease reliance on imports and underscore a commitment to energy self-sufficiency.

India's coal imports rose by 2.2% to 111.20 million tonnes in the April to August period of the current fiscal year, a government statement revealed on Tuesday. Conversely, the non-regulated sector experienced a substantial drop of 10.3% during the same timeframe.

The total cost of imported coal during April-August 2024-25 reached Rs 120,532.21 crore. Despite a 4.97% rise in coal-based power generation from April to September 2024, imports for blending purposes fell by 8.5% compared to the previous year.

This decline highlights India's unwavering commitment to becoming self-sufficient in coal production, reducing reliance on imports. Government initiatives to ramp up domestic coal output will enhance sustainability in the nation's energy framework.

(With inputs from agencies.)