Governement working on increasing coal production to meet growing energy demand of India: GK KishanReddy
The Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy has said with the rapidly growing energy demand of India, the government is working on increasing the coal production to achieve the vision of 'Viksit Bharat'. In an attempt to ensure that people do not have to face power shortage, especially in the summer season, the government has set the target of producing one billion tonnes of coal this year. He said, ‘Energy demand is increasing rapidly in India and coal is an important pillar of our energy security. Coal production is very important for the next 50 years to achieve the aim of Viksit Bharat.’
On the coal supply, he explained that India is the second largest consumer and producer of coal after China. The government is also taking steps to reduce coal import. He also said ‘More than 74 per cent of electricity generation in the country is coal-based. Our coal production has increased from last year and the government is working on increasing the coal production every year’. Further he emphasized the crucial role played by Coal India and all its subsidiaries in ensuring energy security.
Considering a huge demand for critical minerals like lithium and copper, he said ‘The country is acquiring critical mineral blocks in Argentina’. Minister said Prime Minister Modi had directed him to prepare an action plan to meet the rising energy demand by ensuring proper coal storage, land for coal production, safety of coal mining workers and welfare of farmers. The government also eyes to increase mining activity to raise employment opportunities. He also promised to roll out various welfare programmes for coal mine workers.
