New Delhi, Jan 12 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently emphasized the vital role of coal in India’s roadmap to becoming a developed nation by 2047. He shared insights from Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy on the evolution of India’s coal sector into a modern fuel source on the social media platform X.
According to Modi, coal will integrate with green technologies, supporting the country’s sustainable growth. Recent statistics show that coal production hit an all-time high in 2024-25, reaching 1,047.5 million tonnes, up nearly 5% from 2023-24’s 997.8 million tonnes.
The coal supply also increased from 973.0 million tonnes to 1,025.3 million tonnes, showcasing a growth of about 5.38%. Over the past decade, coal production in India has surged from 565.8 million tonnes in 2013-14 to over 1,047 million tonnes.
In 2025, preliminary figures indicate a production of approximately 1,042.9 million tonnes, maintaining steady growth compared to the previous year. The supply for the same period also rose, further confirming the robust performance of the coal sector. During this period, consumers reported uninterrupted access to coal, with no shortages noted in the country.
Today, coal accounts for over 55% of India’s primary commercial energy needs. In power generation, it constitutes around 72% of total output, underscoring its critical role in India’s energy security.
Expert opinion supports this trajectory. Energy analysts suggest that even as renewable sources grow, coal will remain essential in bridging any gaps in energy demand and supply for the foreseeable future.
This debate continues on social media, where some users express concern over reliance on fossil fuels, calling for a faster shift to renewables. Others argue that immediate energy needs can only be met through robust coal production.
Prime Minister Modi’s vision reflects a balancing act: harnessing traditional energy sources while gradually incorporating sustainable practices. This approach aims to ensure energy availability as India progresses toward its ambitious development goals.
For detailed data about India’s coal production and its impact on energy policy, refer to the Ministry of Coal’s reports here.
