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TFP Bureau, New Delhi, February 29, 2024: The Ministry of Coal, led by Shri M. Nagaraju, Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority, conducted a comprehensive review of coal production from captive and commercial coal mines on February 27, 2024, in New Delhi. The assessment showcased a significant uptick in production, with 54 out of 58 coal mines currently operational, and four more mines slated to commence production shortly.
During the period spanning April 1, 2023, to February 26, 2024, the combined coal production from captive and commercial mines reached approximately 125.33 million metric tons (MT), marking a substantial increase of 26% compared to the corresponding period in the previous fiscal year (FY 22-23), which recorded 99.50 MT. Concurrently, dispatch figures surged to 127.6 MT, reflecting a growth of 30% from 98.13 MT in the same timeframe of FY 22-23.
Remarkably, the average daily coal production in February 2024 peaked at 5.14 lakh tons (LT), setting a new milestone in the history of coal production from captive/commercial mines. Notably, the total production from these mines has already exceeded the previous year’s total of 116.55 MT.
The review session, conducted with coal companies serving the power sector, non-regulated sector, and coal sales, acknowledged the commendable increase in coal production. Participants were encouraged to further bolster production capacities wherever feasible, with emphasis placed on promptly addressing any constraints hindering production and dispatch.
Shri M. Nagaraju urged allottees to expedite the operationalization of coal blocks in advanced stages, underscoring their crucial role in driving sectoral growth. Additionally, stakeholders were advised to promptly communicate any production or dispatch-related challenges to the Ministry of Coal for timely resolution.
The review underscores a promising trajectory for the coal sector, signaling robust growth and a concerted effort towards meeting the nation’s energy demands.
