India's coal sector records 5.85% growth in FY 2024-25, reaches 411.62 MT despite challenges

India's coal production surges by 5.85% in FY 2024-25, hits 411.62 MT

India’s coal production has surged significantly in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by the Ministry of Coal. By September 12, 2024, the country's total coal output had reached a provisional 411.62 million tonnes (MT), marking a 5.85 percent growth over the same period in the previous year, when production stood at 388.86 MT.

Despite facing challenges posed by adverse climatic conditions that hampered mining operations, the sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The Ministry of Coal acknowledged these efforts, stating, "these statistics vividly illustrate the resilience and dedication of the coal sector in driving the country's energy security forward."

Coal India Limited (CIL), the largest player in the sector, has been a key driver of this growth. CIL’s production rose to 311 MT during the same period, up from 302.53 MT last year, showing a 2.80 percent increase. The ministry further commented on this achievement "this marks a significant increase from the 388.86 MT produced during the same period last year, reflecting a commendable growth rate of 5.85 percent, despite adverse climatic conditions that challenged mining operations."

Alongside the rise in production, coal dispatches have also seen a notable improvement. During FY 2024-25, up to September 12, total coal dispatch reached 442.24 MT, a 4.97 percent increase compared to 421.29 MT dispatched during the same period in FY 2023-24. A substantial part of this coal has been supplied to power plants, where dispatches increased by 4.03 percent, totaling 362.65 MT.

Coal stocks have also risen considerably. As of September 12, coal stockpiled by coal companies surged to 76.49 MT, representing a 49.07 percent growth compared to the previous year. Similarly, domestic coal-based thermal power plants reported coal stocks of 36.58 MT, showing an impressive growth of 43.68 percent.

The ministry emphasized that the coal sector's ability to meet India’s growing energy needs has been critical in maintaining the country's energy security.

(With inputs from ANI)