India’s energy demand is increasing alongside rapid economic growth and a growing population. The country is investing in renewable energy sources, but coal remains part of its energy supply. A World Energy Outlook report says that under the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS), around 60 GW of coal-fired capacity will be added by 2030. The same report projects that this would lead to a more than 15% increase in coal-generated electricity.
India’s coal role in the energy mix
India is the world’s second-largest producer of coal and derives about 55% of its energy from coal. A complete shift to 100% renewable energy is described as not feasible in the near term, linked to the demands of a growing population. Energy needs across homes, factories and offices are cited as reasons coal continues to be used to meet demand. India’s GDP growth rate of 7.8% and plans to become the third-largest economy by 2030 are also associated with infrastructure expansion and higher energy use.
The U.S. EPA estimates that India’s coal emissions were 22 MtCO2e in 2020. The agency projects those emissions will reach 45 MtCO2e by 2050. These figures are presented in the context of rising demand tied to economic growth and fossil fuel use.
Land restoration through ecological reclamation
Alongside continued coal use, the Ministry of Coal is implementing measures aimed at restoring land affected by mining through ecological reclamation of mined land. The approach includes reforestation of overburden dumps by planting trees and vegetation on restored areas. It also includes afforestation around mines to create green belts intended to support biodiversity and reduce pollution. Restoration of local flora and fauna is included as part of post-mining ecosystem support.
The reclamation work is planned in advance, with closure plans approved by the Ministry. The stated purpose is to minimize carbon footprints after coal mines cease operations. These closure plans are connected to how restoration activities are scheduled relative to mine operations.
Dust control and monitoring around mining areas
To address air pollution around mining sites, techniques such as seed ball planting, drone-based seed casting, and Miyawaki plantation methods have been introduced. The techniques are described as helping trap dust particles released during mining activities. Remote sensing technology is used to monitor these efforts for effectiveness.
The industry also uses equipment and systems intended to reduce dust generation at mines and related sites. Measures listed include surface miners, wheel washing systems, fog cannons and mist sprayers, mechanized road sweepers, continuous ambient air quality monitoring systems (CAAQMS), and wet drilling with dust suppression systems. Together, these measures are described as improving air quality in coal mining regions while continuing energy production.