Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy stressed the significance of coal gasification in bolstering India’s energy security and reducing import reliance. Speaking at the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026, he highlighted coal gasification as a transformative technology that converts coal into syngas for cleaner fuel, chemicals, and hydrogen production, promoting efficient use of domestic resources and economic resilience.
To drive adoption, the government has initiated the National Coal Gasification Mission aiming for 100 million tonnes of gasification by 2030. An incentive scheme of Rs 8,500 crore has been launched to support both public and private projects, with investments exceeding Rs 64,000 crore in the pipeline. Advanced technologies like Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) were also lauded for their potential in accessing untapped reserves with reduced environmental impact.
India’s expanding economy necessitates a balanced energy strategy that marries growth with sustainability, according to the minister. With substantial coal reserves of nearly 400 billion tonnes, coal constitutes around 55% of the energy mix and almost 74% of electricity generation in India. Despite the country’s commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070, coal remains crucial given the current annual demand of one billion tonnes, expected to surge by 2047.
Highlighting India’s heavy reliance on imports for crude oil, natural gas, methanol, and fertilizers, the minister underscored the strategic importance of energy security. He called for a collaborative ecosystem involving industry, academia, start-ups, and research institutions to drive coal gasification initiatives across various sectors like power, oil & gas, and fertilizers. The government is dedicated to facilitating streamlined approvals, favorable policies, and incentives to spur early engagement and investments.
The minister expressed confidence in India’s potential to lead in clean coal technologies globally through innovation, indigenous technology development, and concerted efforts. He envisioned India emerging as a frontrunner in clean coal technologies, advancing energy security, sustainability, and self-reliance.
