India has crossed the milestone of 1 billion tonnes of coal and lignite production in the financial year 2023-24 (FY24). In 2022-23 fiscal, India's total coal and lignite output stood at 937 million tonnes (MT). This notable growth in coal production is a testament to the Ministry of Coal's unwavering commitment to ensuring India's energy security and reducing the nation's reliance on imported coal. These efforts are in line with the government's initiative to promote self-reliance and support the 'Make in India' campaign.
In FY24, coal import for blending was around 22.20 million tonnes, while it was at 30.80 million tonnes in the financial year 2022-23. Savings to the tune of Rs 82,264 crore had been made through the reduction of coal imports in just one year.
India fulfils most of its coal needs through domestic production and supply. Notably, Coal India (CIL) plays a dominant role, contributing over 80% of the country's indigenous coal production and supply. Under the current system, public sector coal companies, including CIL, supply coal to the power sector at notified prices.