New Delhi, July 2 (NationPress) Coal production from both captive and commercial mines in India surged by an impressive 16.4%, reaching 46.01 million tonnes during the first quarter (April-June) of the fiscal year 2025-26, compared to 39.53 million tonnes in the same quarter of the previous year, as per official data released on Wednesday.

Coal dispatches from these mines also saw a growth of 13%, totaling 51.63 million tonnes in the April-June period of the current fiscal year, up from 45.68 million tonnes during the corresponding timeframe last year.

This quarterly rise in both production and dispatches marks the third consecutive year of growth, indicating enhanced efficiency and improved utilization of mining capacity.

In June alone, coal production reached 15.57 million tonnes, with dispatches at 17.31 million tonnes.

Further developments in June, expected to further boost coal production, include the granting of mine opening permissions for the Utkal A Mine, which has a peak rated capacity of 25 million tonnes. Additionally, vesting orders for three coal blocks were issued, bringing the total number of coal blocks allocated by the Ministry of Coal to over 200, as stated in the report.

The rise in coal production is essential for ensuring a steady supply to vital industries, including power generation, steel manufacturing, and cement production, thereby strengthening the backbone of India’s industrial structure, the statement noted.

Moreover, last month, the Nominated Authority of the Coal Ministry opened bids for the 12th round of commercial coal block auctions, receiving 41 bids for 11 coal blocks both online and in physical format.

The response to this auction has been positive, with 27 companies submitting their bids, including over 10 new companies participating for the first time, reflecting a growing interest from private firms in the policy.

The bids will undergo evaluation by a multi-disciplinary Technical Evaluation Committee, with Technically Qualified Bidders set to be shortlisted for participation in the electronic auction on the MSTC portal.

These mines are projected to generate an annual revenue of Rs 3,330 crore (excluding partially explored mines) and attract a capital investment of approximately Rs 2,319 crore. Furthermore, they are anticipated to create 20,902 jobs, significantly contributing to economic development in coal-rich regions, according to an official statement.