Coal Gasification to Drive India’s Energy Security and Industrial Expansion: G. Kishan Reddy

New Delhi: Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, emphasized that coal gasification will play a transformative role in strengthening India’s energy security, reducing reliance on imports, and accelerating industrial growth. He made these remarks while addressing the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026.

Highlighting India’s rapid economic expansion, the Minister noted that the country requires a balanced energy strategy that supports development while ensuring sustainability. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is witnessing significant progress in manufacturing, infrastructure, digital connectivity, and innovation.

Reddy pointed out that India possesses nearly 400 billion tonnes of coal reserves, placing it among the largest globally. Coal continues to be a critical component of the energy mix, contributing around 55% of total energy needs and nearly 74% of electricity generation. With current annual coal demand at about one billion tonnes and expected to grow substantially by 2047, coal will remain central to India’s energy landscape, even as the country pursues its Net Zero emissions target by 2070.

Describing coal gasification as a key technology, the Minister explained that it converts coal into syngas, which can be utilized to produce cleaner fuels, chemicals, fertilizers, and hydrogen. This approach allows for more efficient utilization of domestic coal resources while reducing environmental impact and enhancing economic resilience.

He also highlighted India’s significant dependence on imports, including around 83% of crude oil, 50% of natural gas, and over 90% of methanol and fertilizers, underlining the urgency of strengthening domestic energy capabilities.

To boost coal gasification, the government has launched the National Coal Gasification Mission, targeting 100 million tonnes of gasification by 2030. An incentive package of ₹8,500 crore has been introduced to support both public and private sector participation. Several large-scale projects are already in progress, with investments exceeding ₹64,000 crore in the pipeline.

The Minister also stressed the importance of advanced technologies such as Underground Coal Gasification, which can unlock previously inaccessible coal reserves while minimizing environmental disruption.

Calling for collaboration across industries, academia, start-ups, and research institutions, Reddy said coal gasification has applications across multiple sectors including power, oil and gas, and fertilizers. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to simplifying approvals, providing policy support, and encouraging early investment.

Expressing optimism, he said that with innovation, indigenous technology development, and coordinated efforts, India has the potential to emerge as a global leader in clean coal technologies while advancing energy security, sustainability, and self-reliance.