The Ministry of Coal recently organized “Chintan Shivir 2.0,” a brainstorming session focused on shaping a sustainable and innovative future for the coal sector in India. The event brought together key stakeholders, including government officials and leaders from coal public sector undertakings (PSUs), to discuss strategies for enhancing the sector’s contribution to India’s energy security and economic growth.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, emphasized the importance of adopting cleaner technologies, such as coal gasification, to reduce carbon emissions and align mining practices with global sustainability goals. He also highlighted the need for robust safety measures in mining operations and effective mine closure mechanisms to minimize environmental impact.
Enhancing Coal Production and Transportation
Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt stressed the need for innovation to increase coal production and streamline transportation processes to meet India’s growing energy demands. Discussions focused on improving coal transportation infrastructure and integrating environmentally conscious practices into all aspects of the coal supply chain.
Key Themes and Priorities
The event featured panel discussions on the future of coal in India and sustainable coal mining. Key themes included:
- Achieving the 2 billion-tonne coal production target.
- Adopting clean coal technologies to reduce environmental impact.
- Enhancing the viability of coal as an energy source.
- Addressing mine closures with a focus on biodiversity restoration and community rehabilitation.
Recognizing Achievements and Promoting Collaboration
Minister Reddy acknowledged the achievements of coal PSUs and commended their efforts in capacity building and implementing sustainable practices. The event concluded with a commitment to developing a sustainable and inclusive coal mining framework that positions the sector as a key contributor to India’s self-reliance goals.
The “Chintan Shivir 2.0” served as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing, bringing together key stakeholders to chart a path towards a more sustainable and responsible coal sector in India.
