Scribd
Upload
4 views

PIB Coal Mining

India is balancing increased coal mining output with a strategic reduction of pollution through eco-friendly practices and advanced technologies. The coal sector significantly contributes to economic growth, government revenue, and employment while implementing sustainability measures such as air quality management and mine rehabilitation. This approach reflects India's commitment to economic development and environmental stewardship in the coal industry.

Uploaded by

srinivas.jupalli
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
4 views

PIB Coal Mining

India is balancing increased coal mining output with a strategic reduction of pollution through eco-friendly practices and advanced technologies. The coal sector significantly contributes to economic growth, government revenue, and employment while implementing sustainability measures such as air quality management and mine rehabilitation. This approach reflects India's commitment to economic development and environmental stewardship in the coal industry.

Uploaded by

srinivas.jupalli
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 11

Press Information Bureau

Government of India

Ministry of Coal

INDIA BALANCES COAL MINING OUTPUT WITH


STRATEGIC PHASE-DOWN OF POLLUTING
PROCESSES
Self-Reliant India, Eco-Friendly Future
Posted On: 22 JUL 2024 6:03PM
India is effectively managing the delicate balance between increasing its coal mining
output and strategically phasing down the polluting processes associated with coal
mining. This approach aims to boost energy production while mitigating environmental
impacts.
Chhattisgarh-based Coal India subsidiary Southeastern Coalfields Limited’s (SECL) Gevra
and Kusmunda coal mines have secured the 2nd and 4th spot in the list of the worlds 10
largest coal mines released by WorldAtlas.com.
These two mines, each producing over 100 million tons of coal annually and accounting
for around 10% of India’s total coal production, utilize some of the world’s largest and
most advanced mining machines. Notably, they employ the "Surface Miner," a cutting-
edge technology that extracts and processes coal without blasting, promoting eco-friendly
mining operations.
Coal Mining a Big Booster for Economic Growth

Through ongoing investment and a strong focus on modern technologies, India's coal
production reached 893.19 million tonnes in 2022-23. For 2023-24, production increased to
997.25 million tonnes, achieving an 11.65% growth. It is anticipated through
comprehensive studies that coal demand in 2030 will likely reach 1462 MT and 1755 MT
by 2047.
Coal mining sector has proved to be a big booster for economic growth of the coal
producing States in the Country. State Governments are entitled to receive 14% of Royalty
on sale price of coal. In case of captive/ commercial mines State Government are also
entitled to receive the revenue share offered by the auction holder in transparent bidding
process.

Apart from this, State Governments also benefit from increased employment, land
compensation, increased investment in allied infrastructure like railways, roads and
several other economic benefits.
The focus of the Central Government for enhancing coal production to meet the growing
economy has directly helped the State Govts in realisation of additional revenue, which in
turn has infused capital expenditure in the coal producing regions thereby bringing in
development, both in infrastructure and social sector.

SUSTAINABILITY IN COAL MINES


The mining industry has long been associated with significant environmental degradation
and resource depletion. However, in recent years, the concept of green mining has
emerged as a beacon of hope for a sustainable future

Green Mining Led to a Sustainable Future


Green mining refers to the implementation of eco-friendly practices and technologies in
the mining industry to reduce its environmental impact. It involves using renewable
energy sources, recycling mine waste, minimizing water consumption, and employing
sustainable extraction techniques.
The goal of adopting green mining is to mitigate the industry’s carbon footprint and
promote responsible mining. To achieve environmental sustainability, the following is a
brief explanation of the environmental protection measures being adopted by coal/lignite
PSUs in coal mining areas

1. Air Quality Management

Effective air quality management in coal mines is essential for safeguarding the health of
workers, protecting the environment, and ensuring sustainable mining operations. Coal
mining activities often generate dust and emissions that can impact air quality both
within the mine and in surrounding areas.

Implementing robust air quality management practices helps mitigate these impacts by
controlling dust levels, monitoring emissions, and employing technologies to minimize
pollution.

Wet drilling is used to reduce dust generation. Dust suppression systems are also included
with drill machines. Surface miners and BWEs are being used more frequently, which
reduces the need for drilling and blasting and, thus, the pollution load. Vehicles get
routine maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
Fig. Mist Gun operation to control dust

Fig. PM 10 Analyser in CCL


Fig. Surface Miner with water jets, Gevra OCP, SECL

Fig. Mobile sprinklers in operation for suppression of dust

2. Mine Closure, Bio-reclamation & Land Use Management


Mine closure, bio-reclamation, and land use management are critical components of
responsible coal mining practices aimed at minimizing environmental impacts and
promoting sustainable land use. When a coal mine reaches the end of its operational life,
a systematic approach to closure ensures that the site is safely and effectively
rehabilitated.

Bio-reclamation involves restoring the ecological balance by reintroducing native flora


and fauna, while land use management focuses on repurposing the land for beneficial
uses, such as agriculture or recreational areas. Together, these practices help mitigate the
environmental footprint of mining activities, support ecosystem recovery, and enhance
the long-term usability of former mining sites.
Economic Significance of the Coal Sector Extends Beyond Energy Production
Single largest contributor to Railway Freight: Coal stands as the single largest
contributor to railway freight, with an average share of nearly 49% of total freight income
amounting to Rs. 82,275 Crore in the fiscal year 2022-23 alone. This revenue contribution
has surpassed 33% of total railway earnings, showcasing the sector's substantial influence
on India's transportation network.
Government Revenue: The coal sector contributes over Rs. 70,000 Crore annually to the
central and state governments through royalties, GST, and other levies. These funds play a
crucial role in fostering socio-economic development and infrastructure enhancement in
coal-producing regions. Coal production generates substantial revenue for both Central
and State Governments, with royalty collections reaching Rs. 23,184.86 Crore in the fiscal
year 2022-23.
Employment: The coal sector provides enormous employment opportunities, particularly
in coal-producing districts of Eastern States. With over 239,210 employees in Coal India
Ltd and its subsidiaries, supplemented by contractual workers and outsourcing
engagements, the sector sustains livelihoods for thousands of families. Additionally, over
65,000 contractual workers are engaged in mining operations with CIL and 37,000
workers are engaged through outsourcing for security, driver and housekeeping. With an
average 24,000 trucks are engaged in coal transportation supporting 50,000 people and
30000, workers are engaged in captive/commercial coal mining companies contributing to
job creation.

Dividend Payments: Coal India Ltd consistently contributes substantial dividends to the
Central Government and has paid an average of Rs. 6,487 Crore annually over the past five
years. The FY 2022-23 has seen a significant dividend payment of Rs. 9,475.85 Crore,
highlighting the sector's financial stability and contribution to government revenues.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Coal sector PSUs prioritize CSR initiatives, with
an average annual expenditure of Rs. 608 Crore over the past five years. Notably, Coal
India Ltd alone has allocated an average of Rs. 517 Crore annually for CSR activities. Over
90% of the expenditure has been incurred on, socio- economic development focusing on
healthcare, education, water supply and skill development in coal-producing regions.

Capital Expenditure: Substantial investments in capital expenditure, averaging Rs.


18,255 Crore annually over the past five years, have facilitated infrastructure
development and resource optimization within coal sector PSUs. This capital infusion
stimulates economic growth and fosters a conducive environment for sustainable
development.
As India continues its trajectory of growth and development, the coal sector remains a
cornerstone of the nation's progress, driving economic prosperity, employment
generation, and social well-being.
Conclusion
India's approach to balancing increased coal mining output with a strategic phase-down
of pollution reflects a commitment to both economic growth and environmental
stewardship. By enhancing coal production to meet rising energy demands while
simultaneously implementing measures to reduce pollution, India is working towards a
more sustainable and responsible mining industry. This dual focus on maximizing output
and minimizing environmental impact demonstrates a forward-thinking strategy that
aims to support economic development, improve air quality, and contribute to long-term
sustainability in the coal sector.
References:
pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1941340

chap7AnnualReport2023en.pdf (coal.nic.in)
Sustainable Development for Coal Sector (pib.gov.in)
pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2009196

chap7AnnualReport2023en.pdf (coal.nic.in)
Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in)

Click here to see in PDF


*****

Santosh Kumar/Sarla Meena/Ritu Kataria/Aparajita Priyadarshini


(Backgrounder ID: 151947) Visitor Counter : 299
Download PIB APP

⮜ ⮞

You might also like