India’s coal imports down nearly 6% in April to November 2024

Imports for power plants also fell.

The Ministry of Coal in India has reported lower coal imports, declining by 5.35% between April and November 2024, saving the country around $3.91b.

Coal imports for domestic power plant blending alone fell by 23.56%, the ministry said in a statement.

“With the fifth-largest geological coal reserves globally and as the second-largest consumer, coal continues to be an indispensable energy source, contributing to 55% of the national energy mix,” the ministry said.

Around 74% of power generation in India relies on thermal power plants, emphasising the need for a sustainable coal sector, it added.

India’s coal production has reached an all-time high of 997.82 million tonnes (MT) in fiscal year (FY) 2023 to 2024, increasing 11.71% from a year ago and reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 5.64% over the past decade.

In 2020, India introduced commercial coal mine auctions, encouraging private sector participation and modern technological adoption. As of January 2025, the ministry said it has allotted 184 mines, with 65 blocks receiving Mine Opening Permissions.

Total production from these blocks has reached 136.59 MT, up 34.20% from last year. This is expected to exceed the 170 MT target in FY 2024 to 2025.