Keynote Highlights: Coal’s Role in India’s Energy Security
Ms. Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal, highlighted coal’s critical role in powering nearly 70% of India’s electricity generation. She emphasized that advanced coal gasification technologies are vital to reduce environmental impact, curb imports, and enhance energy security.
Ms. Brar also noted that coal gasification initiatives can spur new industries, generate investments, and contribute significantly to India’s economic growth, aligning with the vision of a sustainable and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. “By adopting innovative coal gasification technologies, India can strengthen its position as a global energy leader while meeting growing demand efficiently,” she stated.
Government Initiatives and Industry CollaborationShri Sanoj Kumar Jha, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Coal, emphasized the backbone role of India’s coal sector in energy security and industrial growth. He highlighted key government initiatives promoting Coal Gasification and Underground Coal Gasification, stressing the importance of private sector participation for rapid adoption.
Shri Jha detailed the Coal Gasification Mission (2020) targeting 100 million tonnes by 2030, and the 2022 creation of a sub-sector for Syngas Production. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to leveraging India’s coal reserves sustainably while attracting investments.
Strategic Importance and Industry Insights
Shri Subhrakant Panda, Past President of FICCI, highlighted coal gasification’s potential to reduce dependence on imports of natural gas, methanol, and ammonia. He explained how the technology opens avenues for fertilizer and clean fuel production, contributing to sustainable growth and enhanced energy security.
Technical Overview and Stakeholder Engagement
The roadshow featured detailed presentations on coal gasification technologies and associated bidding processes. Shri Shubham Goel, Vice President of SBI Capital Markets Limited, elaborated on Surface Coal Gasification and the commercial bid process, while Shri Ajitesh Kumar and Shri Birendra Kumar Thakur from the Ministry of Coal provided insights into Underground Coal Gasification.
An interactive Q&A session allowed participants to engage with experts on investment strategies, regulatory compliance, project financing, and environmental safeguards, further strengthening collaborative growth prospects in the sector.
Looking Ahead: Towards a Sustainable and Aatmanirbhar Bharat
This edition of the Roadshow reaffirmed the Ministry of Coal’s commitment to transparency, stakeholder engagement, and technological advancement. By highlighting investment opportunities, government initiatives, and innovative coal gasification solutions, the event underscored India’s vision of achieving energy security, promoting industrial growth, and building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat through sustainable coal utilization.
