Addressing reporters while highlighting the achievements of the National Democratic Alliance government since 2014, Reddy said that coal availability in the country has improved significantly compared to previous years, when shortages frequently affected power generation. He noted that heavy rainfall during the monsoon season could temporarily disrupt coal production, making the maintenance of substantial reserves crucial.
“Earlier, there used to be a shortage of coal. Now, the Government of India has coal reserves sufficient for 80 days of power generation. Since the monsoon season has begun, coal production could face disruptions due to heavy rainfall,” Reddy said. He added that the reserve levels were maintained in accordance with the directives of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure uninterrupted electricity generation across the country.
The minister also emphasized the strategic importance of critical minerals for India's industrial and economic growth. He said the government is actively identifying critical mineral reserves and conducting exploration activities across multiple regions. According to Reddy, exploration work has already commenced in critical mineral blocks acquired by India in Argentina, and efforts are underway to begin production at the earliest possible stage.
Reddy further stated that the government has initiated auctions in areas where mineral exploration has been completed. He added that private sector participation is being encouraged, particularly in the import of processed and semi-processed critical minerals, to strengthen domestic supply chains and support industrial demand.
Highlighting the transformation of the coal sector, Reddy alleged that scandals related to coal allocation frequently dominated headlines during the previous United Progressive Alliance government. In contrast, he said India is now achieving record levels of coal production, with annual output reaching 1,040 million tonnes.
The minister's remarks underscore the government's focus on energy security, resource development, and mineral self-reliance, as India seeks to meet rising power demands while expanding its access to strategically important critical minerals.
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