New Delhi, Mar 23 (TNT): Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Kishan Reddy, on Monday told the Rajya Sabha that the government has undertaken sweeping reforms in the coal sector, ensuring transparency, boosting production, and eliminating corruption in coal block allocations.
Replying to a question in the Upper House, the Union Minister said that coal blocks, which were earlier allocated on paper, are now being auctioned transparently under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He noted that 73 per cent of the country’s thermal power generation depends on coal, and highlighted that India has overcome the severe electricity shortages that existed in the past.
“There is no power shortage anywhere in the country today. Coal plays a crucial role in this achievement, with nearly 80 per cent of coal supplied for power generation. We are also ensuring uninterrupted supply to core sectors such as cement, steel and fertiliser,” he said.
Reddy stated that India has coal reserves sufficient for nearly 70 years and ranks fifth globally in reserves. The country is the second-largest in coal production and consumption, while Coal India remains the world’s largest coal-producing company.
Highlighting environmental measures, the minister said the government has introduced coal gasification technology to reduce pollution and coal imports.
“For the first time since Independence, seven coal gasification projects are being launched, with foundation work already initiated for four projects. An investment of ₹64,000 crore is being made,” he said, adding that the projects are spread across Maharashtra, Odisha and West Bengal.
The Union Minister further said the government has initiated the scientific closure of 143 coal mines, with dedicated nodal officers overseeing the process.
Committees led by district collectors have been formed to monitor implementation and development activities in these regions.
“We aim to complete the closure of these mines and associated development works by 2028, which will also enhance employment opportunities for local communities,” he added.
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