New Delhi: Despite global concerns, India’s reliance on fossil fuels remains undiminished in its efforts to be self-reliant in the energy sector. Eleven days ahead of last fiscal year’s coal production of 997.83 million tonnes (MT), India’s coal production surpassed one billion tonnes (BT) on March 20, 2025, in the fiscal year 2024-25, the Coal Ministry announced today.
The coal sector public sector undertakings (PSUs), and private players, employ a dedicated workforce of around 5 lakh mine workers across more than 350 coal mines.
India relies on coal for approximately 55% of its energy mix, and around 74% of the country’s electricity is generated by coal-based power plants. This underscores the critical importance of coal in powering India’s economy and sustaining energy security.
The Ministry stated the record-breaking coal production reflects the Government’s strategic reforms and policies, such as amendments to the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act and the opening of the coal sector to private players through the commercial auctioning of coal blocks.
“These initiatives have led to a marked increase in the availability of domestic coal, progressively substituting imports and significantly contributing to foreign exchange savings,” it stated.
From April to December 2024, India’s coal imports declined by 8.4%, resulting in forex savings of around $5.43 billion (₹42,315.7 crore) as compared to the same period of last year.
This milestone aligns with the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and highlights the Ministry of Coal’s ongoing efforts to foster self-reliance in the energy sector while ensuring sustainable development. “This achievement is not just about coal production; it is a crucial step towards ensuring long-term energy security and propelling India’s overall development. By embracing advanced mining techniques, optimizing logistics, and promoting sustainable practices, the coal sector is playing a central role in strengthening India’s energy infrastructure and bolstering economic resilience,” the Ministry stated.
Aligned with the ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision, this “milestone” positions India to become fully self-reliant in the energy sector, the Ministry claimed. It added that through continued strategic reforms, technological advancements, and a focus on responsible resource management, India’s journey towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat remains on track.
– global bihari bureau
