India Crosses 1 Billion Tonne Coal Production Mark; PM Modi Calls It A Milestone For Energy Security

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded India’s achievement of surpassing 1 billion tonnes in coal production, calling it a key milestone in the country’s journey towards energy security, economic growth, and self-reliance.

The Prime Minister credited the success to the dedication of those working in the coal sector and said the achievement will play a crucial role in shaping India’s energy future.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “A Proud Moment for India! Crossing the monumental milestone of 1 Billion tonnes of coal production is a remarkable achievement, highlighting our commitment to energy security, economic growth and self-reliance. This feat also reflects the dedication and hardwork of all those associated with the sector.”

Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy also praised the development, crediting PM Modi’s leadership and focus on technology for driving growth in the sector.

In his post on X, Reddy noted that through the adoption of advanced technologies and efficient mining practices, India has not only increased output but has done so with an emphasis on sustainability and responsibility.

According to him, this achievement will likely significantly contribute to economic expansion and ensure reliable power for the country.

India’s Coal Landscape

As per official data from the Ministry of Coal, India holds the fifth-largest geological coal reserves globally and ranks as the second-largest coal consumer.

Coal continues to dominate India’s energy mix, accounting for 55% of the total share.

The ministry highlighted that around 74% of India’s electricity comes from Thermal Power Plants, underscoring the importance of a steady and sustainable coal supply.

Among the eight core industries, coal registered the highest growth rate, with a 5.3% rise in December 2024 compared to the previous year.

The sector also plays a key role in logistics and employment.

It contributes roughly 50% of Indian Railways’ freight earnings and directly employs nearly 4.78 lakh people.

The ministry reported planting over 54 lakh saplings across more than 2,300 hectares in 2024 as part of its sustainability efforts.

The ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative alone saw the plantation of over 1 million saplings across 11 states.

Additionally, 4,695 hectares have been earmarked for Compensatory Afforestation.

Treated mine water, totaling 18,513 lakh kilolitres, has been distributed to over 18 lakh people in 1,055 villages over the last five years.

Coal gasification has also emerged as a strategic priority, with the government targeting 100 million tonnes by 2030.

The government has approved a ₹8,500 crore incentive scheme to support gasification efforts in both the public and private sectors.

To ensure safety and transparency, the Ministry has introduced tools like the National Coal Mine Safety Report Portal and the Mine Closure Portal.

It is also exploring the creation of a Coal Trading Exchange to promote a competitive and modernized market system.

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