New Delhi, 02 November (H.S.): Coal production from captive and commercial mines registered a sharp increase in October 2026, reflecting renewed momentum in mining operations following the monsoon season. Output from these mines stood at 22.03 million tonnes (MT) during the month, compared with 15.49 MT in October 2025, marking a year-on-year growth of approximately 42 per cent.
Coal dispatches also recorded a significant rise, increasing by 36 per cent to 21.11 MT during October, against 15.48 MT in the corresponding month last year.
According to the Ministry of Coal, the sector recorded substantial growth during the first seven months of the current financial year as well. Between April and October 2026, coal production increased by 11.30 per cent to 117.23 MT, compared with 105.33 MT during the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
Similarly, coal dispatches rose from 111.95 MT to 124.86 MT during the April-October period, registering an increase of 11.53 per cent. The figures reflect sustained progress in mining operations, supported by improved operational efficiency, higher productivity and more effective utilisation of available mining capacities.
In another significant development, the Lohari coal mine in Jharkhand received Mine Opening Permission in October 2026. The mine had been awaiting operationalisation for several years, and the approval marks a further step towards expanding domestic coal production.
With the addition of this mine, the number of operational captive and commercial coal mines in the country has increased to 87.
The Ministry said the rising output from these mines is expected to reduce India's dependence on imported coal, strengthen supply-chain resilience and conserve valuable foreign exchange. It is also expected to advance the government's vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' by enhancing domestic self-sufficiency in coal, a key raw material for industrial development.
Reaffirming its commitment to unlocking the full potential of captive and commercial coal mining, the Ministry said it would continue to focus on sustaining production growth, addressing supply constraints and improving coal availability through progressive policy measures, robust regulatory oversight and continued stakeholder support. These efforts are aimed at ensuring a reliable contribution towards meeting the country's growing energy and industrial requirements.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
