It is indeed a pleasure to connect with the Members of the Coal Producers Association. As this is my first communication with you, please accept my warm greetings and best wishes.
The Coal Producers Association was established in 2010 under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860, with Captive Coal Block holders as its Members. As you know, all Captive Coal Blocks were cancelled by an order of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India in 2014, leading to a period of reduced activity for the Association. Subsequently, the Government of India enacted The Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015, enabling the allocation of coal blocks for commercial mining through auctions—an opportunity in which many of you participated successfully. With your support, along with that of the captive block allottees, we have been able to revive the Coal Producers Association. We now have 26 Members, and I am confident that many more block holders, whom we are actively reaching out to, will soon join us.
Coal remains the backbone of India’s energy sector, being the most abundantly available energy resource in the country. India’s per-capita energy consumption continues to be significantly lower than the world average. To meet the growing aspirations of our nation, substantial additions in energy generation capacity are essential. In the absence of viable and affordable alternatives, a strong increase in domestic coal production is inevitable. In this national effort, commercial coal mining by the private sector will play a crucial role. It is encouraging to note that coal production from commercial mines has shown robust double-digit growth, at times touching nearly 35%. Last year, captive and commercial mines together produced 191 million tonnes of coal. CPA is confident that the contribution from captive and commercial mines will grow substantially in the coming years and is likely to reach 500 million tonnes by 2032–33. The Association continues to work closely with the Ministry to address the concerns of our valued Members, and I am confident that our industry will rise to the occasion and live up to the expectations placed upon it.
We have already begun engaging with various policymakers in the Ministry of Coal and other government bodies, presenting the challenges faced by the commercial mining sector. The Ministry has responded positively and is seeking CPA’s support in major policy development initiatives.
CPA has been organizing workshops, seminars, and conferences across the country and has even more ambitious plans ahead, with active participation from Ministry officials. CPA is becoming a popular platform for you all to showcase your achievements and share experiences for the benefit of all.
Please feel free to reach out to me or any of the office bearers of the Coal Producers Association to share your concerns or suggestions.
As we approach the new year 2026, I extend my heartfelt wishes to you and your family for a very Happy New Year.
