India’s coal output crosses 1 billion tonnes

India produced and dispatched over 1 billion metric tonnes of coal in FY2023–24. This marks a 70% rise since 2014, driven by structural reforms including commercial coal mining, first launched in 2020. Nearly 150 mines have been auctioned so far, with the 12th round underway.

States have received nearly Rs 2.5 trillion in premiums and royalties. The sector has moved from inefficiency to transparency, with private players now active under a structured regime.

Environmental measures include 55% blast-free mining, expanded underground mining, and coal gasification backed by Rs 85 billion in funding. Coal India is also investing in solar, wind, pumped storage, and critical minerals.

First Mile Connectivity is being scaled to mechanise 90% of coal loading. India plans to launch a coal trading exchange to improve access and price transparency. The DigiCoal initiative is using AI, drones, GPS, and digital twins to modernise mines.

Coal’s share in installed capacity has dropped from 60% in 2014–15 to 47%, but it remains vital as electricity demand grows. India’s per capita consumption is one-third of the global average. Coal will remain key as India targets Rs 2,900 trillion ($35 trillion) GDP by 2047.