Govt Notifies Coking Coal as ‘Critical Mineral’ to Reduce Steel Import Dependence

The Government of India has officially notified coking coal as a critical mineral, a move aimed at strengthening domestic steel production and reducing reliance on imported raw materials.

The notification brings coking coal under the ambit of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) framework applicable to critical minerals, enabling faster approvals, focused exploration, and policy support for domestic production. Coking coal is a key input in steelmaking, and India currently depends heavily on imports to meet the sector’s requirements.

According to officials, the decision is expected to improve supply security for the steel industry, lower import bills, and support the country’s long-term infrastructure and manufacturing goals. India imports a significant portion of its coking coal needs, mainly from Australia, making the steel sector vulnerable to global price volatility and supply disruptions.

The Ministry of Coal will work with other departments to encourage exploration, improve beneficiation of domestic coal, and promote technologies that enhance the usability of India’s coking coal reserves. The move also aligns with the government’s broader push for self-reliance in core industrial inputs.

Industry participants have welcomed the step, noting that targeted policy support could help build a more resilient and competitive domestic steel value chain.