India's coal production crosses record 1 bn tonnes: Pralhad Joshi

India has a sizeable coal reserve at the moment, with coal firms holding about 96 MT of coal. As of March 20, 2024, domestic thermal power plants that rely on coal have 46.25 MT of coal reserves.

India's output of coal and lignite crossed one billion tonnes (BT), on March 22, a historic achievement, said Pralhad Joshi, Minister of Coal, Mines & Parliamentary Affairs.

During the current fiscal year, 2023–24, India has surpassed previous year's output of 937.22 million tonnes (MT) of coal and lignite by a margin of 25 days.

In addition, India has a sizeable coal reserve at the moment, with coal firms holding about 96 MT of coal. As of March 20, 2024, domestic thermal power plants that rely on coal have 46.25 MT of coal reserves.

Historical High: PM @narendramodi ji is leading India's coal mining sector to unprecedented growth. PM Modi ji's vision has brought everyone together to achieve 1 Billion Tonne production of coal+lignite. With this, we have unlocked a major milestone for the coal mining sector,… pic.twitter.com/3xjIW5UmQ8

— Pralhad Joshi (Modi Ka Parivar) (@JoshiPralhad) March 23, 2024

"Mission 1 billion tonne was a milestone we had put in action a few years ago considering the burgeoning electricity requirements of our nation. This is a historic milestone in India's quest for energy security under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi. The achievement of 1 billion tonne in coal and lignite production will ensure the lights are on in citizens' houses even as the coal sector continues to power up the economy," said Joshi.

This large coal stockpile guarantees a steady supply of energy across the country, which is essential for maintaining economic activity and satisfying the growing demand for electricity, particularly during periods of peak use, the minister added.

The accomplishment of India in breaking the 1 BT mark in coal and lignite output enhances the nation's energy security and lessens its need on coal imports, resulting in significant savings in foreign exchange reserves, the official statement said.

Last year, Joshi has mentioned that the demand of electricity by 2030 is going to double and to cater to the need the country needs coal.