INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD

This study examines the state-wise distribution, production performance, and sector wise dispatch patterns of coal in India for the period 2021–22 to 2023–24. In 2023–24, total coal reserves stood at 378207 million tons (MT), classified into three categories Exact/Measured 52.86, 40.11 and 7.04 percent respectively. Coal reserves are heavily concentrated, with Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh accounting for 69.57 percent, indicating a strong but regionally skewed mineral base. National coal production demonstrated steady growth, rising from 778.21 MT in 2021–22 to 997.25 MT in 2023–24 (provisional). Coal India Limited (CIL) emerged as the largest producer, contributing over about 77.0 percent of total output, while Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) maintained stable production around 70 MT annually. Captive and other private producers recorded the highest growth rates, reflecting increasing private sector participation despite lower target achievements. Coal dispatch volumes followed a similar growth trajectory, reaching 972.65 MT in 2023–24. Public power units remain the dominant consumers of coal accounting for over 82.0 percent of CIL’s dispatches, though private power utilities recorded a significant 30.0 percent of growth in coal consumption. Non-power sectors such as cement, steel, and miscellaneous industries represent smaller but stable market segments. The findings highlight India’s strong production capabilities, supported by robust state-owned enterprises and expanding private involvement. However, the high reserve concentration and significant share of Inferred resources (26,621 MT) underscore the need for targeted exploration, infrastructure expansion, and diversified coal utilization to ensure long-term energy security and balanced regional development.