New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, emphasized on Sunday that coal gasification will be crucial in fortifying India’s energy security, lessening import reliance, and fostering industrial advancement. Speaking at the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026, he described coal gasification as a transformative technology that converts coal into syngas, which can then be utilized to generate cleaner fuels, chemicals, fertilizers, and hydrogen. This method facilitates a more efficient and sustainable use of domestic resources while bolstering economic resilience.

The minister announced the launch of the National Coal Gasification Mission aimed at achieving 100 million tonnes of gasification by 2030. To encourage adoption, an incentive scheme worth Rs 8,500 crore has been established to assist both public and private sector initiatives, with several large-scale projects already in progress and investments surpassing Rs 64,000 crore on the horizon. He also highlighted advanced technologies such as Underground Coal Gasification (UCG), which can unlock previously unreachable reserves while mitigating environmental impacts.

He stated that India’s rapidly growing economy necessitates a balanced energy strategy that aligns development with sustainability. The minister underscored India’s significant coal reserves, estimated at nearly 400 billion tonnes—one of the largest in the world—where coal constitutes about 55% of the energy mix and nearly 74% of electricity generation. With the annual coal demand currently around one billion tonnes and projected to rise considerably by 2047, he stressed the ongoing relevance of coal, even as India aspires to reach Net Zero emissions by 2070.

Additionally, he pointed out India’s heavy reliance on imports—about 83% of crude oil, 50% of natural gas, and over 90% of methanol and fertilizers—making energy security a strategic imperative.

The minister urged for a collaborative environment involving industry, academia, start-ups, and research institutions, noting that coal gasification affects various sectors, including power, oil and gas, and fertilizers. He reassured the government’s commitment to streamlined approvals, supportive policies, and incentives to promote early participation and investment.

He expressed optimism that with innovation, indigenous technology development, and coordinated efforts, India can become a global frontrunner in clean coal technologies, while simultaneously enhancing energy security, sustainability, and self-reliance.