A R DAS
Coal imports in the country dropped by over three percent from April to October last year, from over 154 million tonnes to over 149 million tonnes during the same period in the previous year. The Coal Ministry said India’s coal sector is critical in supporting its rapidly growing economy.
The ministry said the country faces a significant gap in meeting its coal demand from domestic reserves, particularly for coking coal and high-grade thermal coal, which are not adequately available.
As a result, coal imports are essential to support critical industries such as steel production. The ministry said the government continues to implement a range of strategic measures to boost domestic production and ensure a stable coal supply. It said these efforts aim not only to reduce India’s dependence on coal imports but also to fortify the country’s energy security.