India Advances Coal Gasification Programme Targeting 100 Million Tonnes By 2030
India is accelerating its energy independence strategy with a new coal gasification programme targeting 100 million tonnes by 2030. Backed by a government allocation of ₹85,000 crore, the initiative aims to convert domestic coal into urea and other essential chemicals, reducing reliance on imported oil, methanol, and ammonia. Two of seven planned projects are set to begin soon, signalling a significant shift towards cleaner coal utilisation and strengthening India’s industrial and agricultural supply chains.
The Coal Gasification Mission, launched in 2020, forms a central pillar of India’s strategy to maximise the value of its abundant coal reserves. According to a senior government official, this initiative will not only enhance energy security but also support affordable production of fertilisers and chemicals for farmers and industries alike. By reducing import dependence—currently around 83 per cent for oil, over 90 per cent for methanol, and 13 per cent for ammonia—India stands to conserve significant foreign exchange while safeguarding critical supply chains.Coal gasification involves converting coal into synthetic gas that can be used for producing urea, methanol, ammonia, and other chemicals. Industry experts note that this method offers a cleaner alternative to traditional coal combustion, reducing particulate emissions and improving energy efficiency. “By scaling these projects responsibly, India can bridge the gap between fossil fuel dependence and its long-term renewable energy ambitions,” an energy analyst explained.
Economically, the programme is expected to generate employment across construction, engineering, and chemical manufacturing sectors. Farmers could particularly benefit from lower-cost urea, helping to stabilise agricultural input prices and support rural livelihoods. Urban planners and energy specialists suggest that integrating coal gasification into industrial planning aligns with sustainable resource management, although careful monitoring will be required to minimise environmental impacts.The two upcoming projects among the seven approved under the mission are expected to set benchmarks in efficiency, environmental compliance, and production capacity. Officials emphasise that the programme is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of achieving energy independence by 2027, positioning coal as a high-value resource rather than a mere fuel.
As India embarks on this ambitious path, coal gasification presents a strategic opportunity to strengthen domestic industries, reduce import reliance, and promote cleaner energy utilisation. While challenges around environmental compliance and scalability remain, the initiative marks a significant step in the country’s journey towards energy resilience, industrial growth, and sustainable development.
