Experts say India should rapidly expand domestic coal gasification to reduce vulnerability to global energy shocks. By converting dry coal into syngas, the process can support alternative fuel use while lowering carbon emissions. The move is also framed as a step toward energy security and import substitution, with downstream benefits for critical sectors such as fertilizers.
India’s Ministry of Coal has signed Coal Mine/Block Production and Development Agreements for four mines in the 14th commercial auctions, and for the first time those contracts embed Underground Coal Gasification provisions. The move could unlock deep and unworkable coal for syngas, with knock-on benefits for fertilisers, chemicals, and cleaner energy—while scaling India’s broader coal auction momentum.
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