Hyderabad: Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy directed Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) to increase SCCL coal production by securing new mining blocks and expanding operations to strengthen India’s energy security.
Chairing a review meeting at Singareni Bhavan in Hyderabad on Sunday, the Minister assessed mine-wise coal production, dispatch, overburden removal, ongoing and proposed mining projects, statutory clearances, and future expansion plans.
Kishan Reddy instructed SCCL to actively participate in the Ministry of Coal’s upcoming coal block auctions to secure additional mining blocks and enhance production capacity. He also called for a comprehensive 10 to 15-year strategic action plan to meet the country’s growing electricity demand.
The Minister said coal would remain a key component of India’s energy mix for years and urged SCCL to increase production while reducing costs and improving operational efficiency. He added that the company should pursue long-term growth aligned with the nation’s future energy needs rather than focusing only on commercial success.
Long-term strategy to strengthen SCCL coal production
Kishan Reddy said increasing competition in the energy sector required public sector enterprises to improve quality standards and productivity. He also stressed the need for transparent communication to help employees understand the company’s challenges and future direction.
The Union Minister proposed constituting a special committee to recommend reforms for SCCL’s long-term growth and sustainability. He assured the management of the Central government’s full support in implementing expansion plans.
Kishan Reddy also highlighted the potential of coal gasification in India and advised SCCL to launch a pilot coal gasification project. He suggested exploring the initiative in the Ramagundam industrial region, citing the presence of fertiliser and other industries that could benefit from the clean coal value chain.