Trying to convince J’khand about coal mining policy’s benefits: Govt

The Centre on Monday said it is trying to “consult and convince” the Jharkhand Government about benefits of commercial coal mining policy which is designed to boost domestic production and reduce imports. Union Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi during the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha said that it is a “big sin” that India despite having the largest coal reserves is dependent on import of thermal coal used in power generation.

The dependence on imports was due to restriction on allocation of coal blocks, which has been eased out after deep consultation with the state governments, he said. After consultations with states, the central government has brought a commercial coal mining policy under which coal blocks are opened to private investors through auction for commercial purpose, he added.