The Government of India has significantly increased its focus on Research & Development (R&D) in coal technologies, aiming for long-term sustainable growth and diversification of the sector. An allocation of Rs. 18.00 crore was made for R&D under the Central Sector Scheme in the financial year 2023-24, with an increased budget of Rs. 21.00 crore for the year 2024-25. Additionally, Coal India Limited (CIL) and other Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in the coal sector are also contributing substantially to R&D activities.
In a major step towards enhancing research in this field, the establishment of a “National Centre for Coal & Energy Sector” (NaCCER) has been planned at the Central Mine Planning & Design Institute (CMPDI) in Ranchi. The center will focus on several key areas for R&D, including:
- Production, Productivity, Safety, and Exploration: Innovations aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of coal mining operations.
- Environment, Ecology, Conservation, and Sustainability: Efforts to minimize the environmental impact of coal mining and promote sustainable practices.
- Coal Mining Waste to Wealth: Strategies to convert mining waste into useful products, supporting the circular economy.
- Clean Coal Technologies and Coal Beneficiation: Development of technologies to reduce the environmental footprint of coal use.
- Alternative Use of Coal: Exploring new applications of coal beyond traditional uses.
- Renewable Energy: Integration of renewable energy sources with coal-based energy systems.
- AI/ML/IoT-Based Smart Mining: Implementation of advanced technologies to enhance mining operations.
- Technology Innovation and Indigenisation: Encouraging innovation and the development of indigenous technologies.
To further these objectives, a ‘Hackathon on Coal Gasification’ was organized during 2024-25, aiming to harness coal as a vital resource for meeting the nation’s energy and chemical needs. This initiative also supports India’s goal of economic independence and environmental sustainability.
Additionally, the government has been organizing “Hackathons on R&D” to promote the “Make in India” initiative within the coal sector. These events aim to encourage startups and innovations, providing a platform for new ideas and technologies in the coal and lignite sectors.
Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy shared this information in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing R&D in the coal sector for a sustainable and technologically advanced future.
