Is Coal Production from Captive and Commercial Mines Experiencing Remarkable Growth in April?

Synopsis
April has proven to be a promising month for India's coal industry, with substantial growth in production and dispatch. This article delves into the recent statistics and the factors driving this growth.
Key Takeaways
- Coal production reached 14.01 MT in April 2025.
- Coal dispatch totaled 16.81 MT during the same period.
- Year-on-year growth demonstrates a positive trend.
- New coal blocks have significantly contributed to production.
- Domestic production is reducing coal imports.
New Delhi, May 2 (NationPress) Coal production from captive and commercial mines in India reached 14.01 million tonnes (MT) in April, while coal dispatch was noted at 16.81 million tonnes (MT), indicating a strong commencement to FY2025–26, according to government data released on Friday.
This represents a significant year-on-year increase compared to April figures from FY 2023-24 and FY 2022-23, highlighting the sector’s upward trend.
The Coal Ministry credited this achievement to ongoing policy interventions, diligent monitoring, and support for stakeholders to expedite operational clearances and boost production capacity.
A vital factor contributing to this progress is the initiation of operations in newly developed coal blocks.
The Kotre Basantpur Pachmo block of Central Coalfields Limited (CCL), which has a Peak Rated Capacity (PRC) of 5 MT per annum (opencast), commenced on April 15, 2025.
Similarly, the Naini coal block of Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL), with a PRC of 10 MT per annum (opencast), began operations on April 16.
Total coal production in India during April reached 81.57 million tonnes (MT), up 3.63 percent from the previous year's 78.71 MT.
India’s overall coal dispatch for April hit 86.64 MT, showing a steady rise from 85.11 MT in April 2024 in FY2025-26.
As of April 30, coal stock held by companies surged to 125.76 MT in FY 2025-26, compared to 102.41 MT during the same period last year.
India’s coal imports from April to December 2024 fell by 8.4 percent to 183.42 million tonnes (MT) from 200.19 MT in the same timeframe of the previous financial year, attributed to the rise in domestic production.
Looking ahead, the ministry reaffirms its dedication to unlocking the complete potential of captive and commercial coal mining in India.
The focus is on ensuring uninterrupted production, minimizing supply disruptions, and significantly contributing to the nation’s increasing energy demand.