India's Coal Imports Drop 8.4% Amid Domestic Production Growth

India's coal imports fell by 8.4% during April-December 2024, totaling 183.42 million tonnes, leading to foreign exchange savings of approximately $5.43 billion. The most significant declines were seen in the Non-Regulated Sector, with imports dropping 12.01%, while coal-based power generation grew by 3.53%. The government's initiatives, such as Commercial Coal Mining and Mission Coking Coal, have contributed to a 6.11% increase in domestic coal output compared to the previous year. Furthermore, thermal coal imports declined for the sixth consecutive month in February 2025, decreasing by 15.3% amid a slowdown in manufacturing and muted power generation demand. Despite predictions of increased coal consumption during the summer, enhanced domestic production may limit the need for imports. Overall, these trends reflect India's strategic goal of reducing reliance on imported coal and fostering energy self-sufficiency.