Hyderabad

Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy on Monday said the Centre has built up coal reserves capable of supporting power generation requirements for approximately 80 days, ensuring adequate preparedness ahead of potential monsoon-related disruptions.

Addressing the media while highlighting the achievements of the NDA government since 2014, Reddy noted that coal availability, which was once a major concern, has significantly improved under the current administration.

"There was a time when coal shortages frequently affected power generation. Today, the Government of India has ensured coal stocks sufficient for around 80 days of electricity production. Since the monsoon season has commenced, mining operations may face challenges due to heavy rainfall, but adequate reserves have been maintained to address such situations," he said.

The minister added that the stockpiling exercise was undertaken in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's directions to strengthen the country's energy security and ensure uninterrupted power supply.

Speaking about critical minerals, Reddy said the government is actively identifying and exploring deposits of strategically important minerals across various regions. He noted that auction processes have already begun in areas where exploration work has been completed.

He also revealed that exploration activities have started in critical mineral blocks acquired by India in Argentina, expressing hope that commercial production would begin at the earliest.

According to Reddy, the Centre is encouraging private sector participation in the import of processed and semi-processed critical minerals to support domestic industries and reduce supply-chain vulnerabilities.

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Taking a swipe at the previous UPA government, he alleged that the coal sector had once been associated with controversies and corruption scandals. In contrast, he said, India is now recording unprecedented levels of coal production, with annual output reaching around 1,040 million tonnes.