Hyderabad: Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy said Coal sector reforms introduced by the Centre over the past 12 years transformed the industry and created employment opportunities for nearly five lakh people across the country.
Addressing a press conference in Hyderabad, the minister reviewed the performance of the Coal and Mines Ministries between 2024 and 2026. He also highlighted key achievements of the Narendra Modi government during the last 12 years.
Kishan Reddy said the coal industry had previously faced allegations of corruption, irregularities and inadequate investment. However, he stated that reforms introduced by the Centre improved transparency, enhanced efficiency and encouraged greater investment in the sector.
He noted that India ranks second globally in coal consumption after China. He added that coal currently contributes nearly 72 per cent of the country’s electricity generation, making it vital for energy security and industrial growth.
Coal sector reforms strengthen production and infrastructure
The minister said India achieved a landmark coal production of one billion tonnes this year. Moreover, the country maintains coal reserves sufficient for nearly 80 days of consumption, helping ensure uninterrupted power supply.
Kishan Reddy said coal remains a critical raw material for industries such as steel and fertilisers. As domestic production increased, coal imports declined significantly, reducing dependence on overseas supplies.
Furthermore, he said the Centre is expanding railway infrastructure in mining regions to lower transportation costs and improve logistics efficiency.
Referring to critical minerals, the minister said countries worldwide are competing to secure strategic resources. Therefore, the government launched initiatives to strengthen self-reliance in critical minerals and pursued international partnerships to secure future supplies.
He also said authorities are exploring synthetic gas production from coal as part of efforts to diversify energy sources. In addition, exhausted coal mines are being closed scientifically, while selected sites are being converted into green zones and tourism destinations.
Meanwhile, Kishan Reddy criticised the Telangana government over the utilisation of District Mineral Foundation funds. He alleged that funds intended for mining-affected villages were not reaching districts as planned.
The minister further said the Centre had taken steps to reduce the financial burden on Singareni Collieries and improve welfare measures for employees. He added that these initiatives would support sustainable growth in the mining sector while enhancing benefits for workers.
Live: Press Briefing highlighting achievements of the Ministries of Coal and Mines (2024-26) and 12 years of the @narendramodi Govt., Film Nagar, Hyderabad.@CoalMinistry @MinesMinIndia https://t.co/zsVVqN8RUP
— G Kishan Reddy (@kishanreddybjp) June 8, 2026
