India Government Auctions 12 Coal Mines In 11th Round
India’s domestic coal production rose 2.06% in November 2025 compared to the same month last year, reaching 92.68 million tonnes. Coal India Limited led the output, contributing over 73% of total production, while industrial sectors such as steel, cement, and captive power plants recorded a notable increase in coal offtake. Despite this growth, total output fell short of the government’s 97.18 million tonnes target, underscoring ongoing challenges in meeting supply goals amid fluctuating energy demand.
Coal India Limited (CIL) remained the backbone of the sector, with its production accounting for nearly three-quarters of the total output. Other contributors included Singareni Collieries Company Ltd, captive mines, and private operators. Industry analysts observed that while the sector shows resilience with incremental growth, logistical and operational constraints continue to create a gap between planned targets and actual production.November also saw a decline in power generation by approximately 5.8% compared to October, attributed to moderate weather conditions that reduced household and commercial electricity consumption. The power sector, however, remained the largest consumer of coal, drawing 66.83 million tonnes—an increase of 3.1% over the previous month. Officials emphasised that even minor fluctuations in coal supply and power generation can affect grid stability and industrial output, highlighting the importance of maintaining reliable domestic coal production.
Industrial coal consumption surged more sharply, with sectors such as steel, cement, iron, and captive power plants collectively using 18.8 million tonnes, up 20.4% from October. Their share of total coal offtake rose from 19.4% to 22%, signalling a shift in demand patterns as urban infrastructure projects and industrial activity expand. Experts suggested that this trend reflects a rebalancing of coal allocation between power generation and industrial needs, an essential consideration for energy planning in fast-growing cities.The shortfall relative to production targets highlights persistent challenges in mining efficiency, transport logistics, and overall supply chain management. Urban planners and industrial policy makers note that maintaining reliable coal supplies is critical not only for electricity security but also for supporting equitable economic growth in urban and semi-urban centres. Integrating renewable energy alongside improved coal logistics is increasingly seen as a pathway to sustaining energy availability while advancing India’s net-zero and climate-resilient goals.
November’s data also offers insight into the broader urban and environmental implications of coal dependence. Efficient coal management is central to balancing industrial development, energy security, and sustainable urban living. As cities continue to expand, ensuring steady coal supply, while gradually transitioning to low-carbon alternatives, will be key to building inclusive, resilient, and future-ready urban ecosystems.
