- Coal gasification drives energy security and growth
- Kishan Reddy highlights coal gasification mission targets
Hyderabad, March 23: Union Minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy said coal gasification will play a key role in strengthening India’s energy future. He addressed the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 and stressed the need to reduce import dependence while supporting industrial growth.
He spoke to industry leaders, experts, start-ups, researchers, students, and policymakers. He said India’s fast-growing economy needs a balanced energy approach. This approach must align development with sustainability. He also noted strong growth across manufacturing, infrastructure, digital connectivity, and innovation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Meanwhile, the Minister highlighted India’s large coal reserves. He estimated them at nearly 400 billion tonnes, among the largest in the world. He said coal accounts for about 55% of the energy mix and nearly 74% of electricity generation. Therefore, coal continues to play a major role in the country’s energy system.
He added that annual coal demand is around one billion tonnes. This demand is expected to rise significantly by 2047. However, India remains committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2070. In this context, he described coal gasification as a transformative technology. It converts coal into syngas. This can then produce cleaner fuels, chemicals, fertilisers, and hydrogen.
He said this method allows more efficient and sustainable use of domestic resources. It also strengthens economic resilience. At the same time, he pointed out India’s high import dependence. The country imports about 83% of crude oil, 50% of natural gas, and over 90% of methanol and fertilizers. Therefore, energy security remains a strategic priority.
To address this, the government launched the National Coal Gasification Mission. It targets 100 million tonnes of gasification by 2030. An incentive framework of Rs 8,500 crore supports public and private projects. Several large-scale initiatives are already underway, with investments exceeding Rs 64,000 crore.
He also highlighted advanced technologies like Underground Coal Gasification. These can tap inaccessible reserves and reduce environmental impact. Finally, he called for collaboration among industry, academia, start-ups, and research institutions. He reaffirmed support through policies, approvals, and incentives. He expressed confidence that India can lead in clean coal technologies while advancing energy security and self-reliance.
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