Central Minister Shri G. Kishan Reddy urged swift coal sector reforms, coal gasification, and technology‑driven mining to strengthen India's energy security.

Coal's role in India's energy security is indispensable, as coal remains a major source for power generation, industrial energy, and domestic heating. In recent years, the coal sector has faced environmental regulations, production costs, and supply‑chain disruptions. Amid these challenges, Energy Minister G. Kishan Reddy has demanded swift and comprehensive reforms from the government to make the coal industry more efficient, cleaner, and competitive. The minister said that to strengthen energy security, coal gasification and technology‑driven mining should be prioritized, which will increase production capacity and reduce pollution.

Coal gasification is a process in which coal is converted into gas, enabling higher energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions. The minister explained that gasification will not only lower the cost of power generation but also provide raw material for chemical industries. In addition, technology‑based mining, such as automated drilling, remote‑sensing, and data‑analytics, will improve mining efficiency and safety. This approach will also reduce health risks for workers and improve environmental compliance.

For the successful implementation of these initiatives, the government needs to streamline the policy framework, increase investment incentives, and promote public‑private partnerships. The minister urged industry associations and the scientific community to work together on technological innovation and regulatory reforms. If these steps are taken in time, India will be helped to move forward on the path of sustainable development alongside energy security.