Wedoany.com Report-May 28, India’s coal imports in fiscal year 2025 fell by 7.9%, totaling 243.62 million tonnes, according to the Ministry of Coal. This decline led to foreign exchange savings of approximately $7.93 billion, reflecting a strategic shift toward greater reliance on domestic coal production.

The Non-Regulated Sector saw a significant reduction in coal imports, with an 8.95% year-on-year decrease. Despite a 3.04% increase in coal-based power generation during the same period, thermal power plants reduced their coal imports for blending by 41.4%. This sharp drop highlights the effectiveness of efforts to optimize domestic resources and minimize external sourcing.

India has actively worked to boost its coal production, achieving a 5% growth in output during FY 2025. These initiatives have supported the country’s goal of reducing dependence on imported coal while meeting rising energy demands. The increased domestic production has helped stabilize the energy sector and contributed to substantial cost savings.

“The Ministry of Coal is committed to enhancing domestic production to meet the nation’s energy needs sustainably,” a ministry spokesperson stated. “These efforts have not only reduced imports but also strengthened our energy security and economic resilience.”

By prioritizing local coal output, India has made strides in balancing its energy requirements with economic efficiency. The reduction in imports, particularly for thermal power plants, underscores the success of ongoing measures to improve production capacity and resource management.