Minister calls for coal sector support during global energy challenges

Central minister of state for coal and mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, on Wednesday said the coal sector must support the country “at these crucial hour”, citing global energy challenges and the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He made the remarks during a visit to the headquarters of Eastern Coalfields Limited.

India’s coal sector, it is learnt, is operating at maximum capacity to meet surging power demand and offset global fuel volatility. Record domestic production has created a comfortable buffer, while emergency provisions activated by the government remain in force to ensure uninterrupted thermal power generation, the ministry said.

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The ministry of power has already invoked emergency powers under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, directing thermal and imported coal-based power plants to operate at full capacity. To sustain the grid during summer, India has also deferred planned maintenance shutdowns of nearly 10,000 MW of coal-fired capacity until July.

Dubey stressed the need to balance coal production with environmental responsibility and urged the adoption of modern and sustainable mining practices. He highlighted the importance of technological advancement, efficient resource utilisation and improved safety standards to strengthen ECL’s operational capabilities. The minister also called for systematic and periodic stock verification to ensure accuracy in declared coal reserves.

Reviewing ECL’s performance for FY 2025-26, Dubey praised initiatives in underground coal gasification, scientific mine closure for repurposing mined-out land, First Mile Connectivity projects aimed at reducing air pollution and expediting coal transport, and the expansion of solar energy installations. He directed that issues requiring intervention from the ministry of coal be submitted in a consolidated manner for coordinated follow-up with state and Central governments.

The minister was received by ECL CMD Satish Jha and other functional directors. He also visited ECL’s Kunustoria Area. Discussions covered production, dispatch, mine safety, operational efficiency and sustainable development.

Reiterating the Centre’s commitment to energy security, Dubey said ECL, one of Coal India Limited’s oldest subsidiaries, has a crucial role in meeting the country’s coal and energy requirements. He appreciated the efforts of Team ECL despite operational and external challenges.

The minister’s remarks come in the wake of the Prime Minister’s call to rationalise the use of petroleum fuel.