Hyderabad: Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy said coal sector reforms introduced by the Centre over the past 12 years transformed the industry and generated employment opportunities for nearly five lakh people.
Addressing a press conference in Hyderabad, the minister highlighted the achievements of the Coal and Mines Ministries between 2024 and 2026 and reviewed the performance of the Narendra Modi government over the past 12 years.
He said the coal sector had earlier struggled with allegations of corruption, irregularities and inadequate investment. However, reforms introduced under the Modi government improved transparency and efficiency, he added.
The minister noted that India currently ranks second in global coal consumption after China. He also said coal accounts for nearly 72 per cent of the country’s electricity generation.
Coal sector reforms boost production and energy security
Kishan Reddy said India achieved the milestone of producing one billion tonnes of coal this year.
Moreover, the country currently maintains coal reserves sufficient for around 80 days of consumption, helping ensure uninterrupted power generation.
He said coal remains a key raw material for steel, fertiliser and several other industries.
As domestic production rises, coal imports have declined significantly, he added.
The minister also said the government is strengthening railway infrastructure in mining regions to reduce transportation costs.
Referring to critical minerals, Kishan Reddy said countries across the world are competing to secure strategic resources.
Accordingly, the Centre has launched initiatives to improve self-reliance in critical minerals and is pursuing international partnerships for their supply.
He further said the government is exploring synthetic gas production from coal as part of efforts to diversify energy sources.
The minister noted that authorities are scientifically closing exhausted coal mines and converting some sites into green and tourism zones.
Meanwhile, Kishan Reddy criticised the Telangana government over the utilisation of District Mineral Foundation funds.
He alleged that funds meant for the development of mining-affected villages were not reaching districts as intended.
The minister also said measures have been taken to reduce the financial burden on Singareni Collieries and improve welfare benefits for employees.
Live: Press Briefing highlighting achievements of the Ministries of Coal and Mines (2024-26) and 12 years of the @narendramodi Govt., Film Nagar, Hyderabad.@CoalMinistry @MinesMinIndia https://t.co/zsVVqN8RUP
— G Kishan Reddy (@kishanreddybjp) June 8, 2026