The Ministry of Coal reviewed 127 coal blocks on November 13-14 to bolster India's energy security and support its developmental vision. Chaired by Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority Rupinder Brar, the meeting evaluated 64 operational coal blocks and 63 nearing production stages across states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal.

The 64 producing blocks achieved a production of 100.08 million tonnes (MT) as of November 8, 2024, reflecting a 33.35% year-on-year increase. Dispatches also rose by 34.38%, reaching 107.81 MT.

Discussions focused on First Mile Connectivity, production optimisation, and improved transportation infrastructure. Brar urged state officials and allottees to expedite operationalising pending blocks, underscoring their role in ensuring energy security.

Currently, 55 blocks are operational, with one new block starting production this year and nine more expected to follow by the fiscal year's end. These efforts align with India's goal of energy self-reliance and becoming a developed nation by 2047. (ET)