Coal India has set an ambitious target of producing one billion tonnes of coal by 2030, reaffirming coal’s central role in India’s energy security.

The state-run miner is banking on mine developer and operator (MDO) projects to drive the growth, with 18 such mines in the pipeline. These projects bring private efficiency to public-sector mining operations.

The company has also deployed high-capacity shovels and dumpers to raise productivity at its large opencast mines. Mechanisation is key to meeting the rising demand from power plants and industries.

Despite the global push toward renewables, India continues to depend on coal for nearly 70 per cent of its electricity. Coal India says domestic production must grow to reduce costly imports and save foreign exchange.

Analysts say the target is achievable if land acquisition and environmental clearances move on schedule. The company’s output has grown steadily, touching record levels in recent years, and new washeries will improve coal quality. The target underscores India’s continued reliance on coal even as renewable capacity expands rapidly.