The domestic coal-based power generation increased 8.38 per cent to 779.1 Billion Units (BU) in April-November FY24 , an official statement said on Saturday.
In the year-ago period, the domestic coal-based power generation stood at 718.83 BU.
India's power generation increased 7.71 per cent in the period under review, the coal ministry said in a statement.
The overall coal-based power generation witnessed a year-on-year increase of 11.19 per cent during the period on account of unprecedented rise in temperature, delayed monsoon in the northern region of the country coupled with the resumption of full commercial activities post-Covid.
Coal import for blending decreased substantially by 44.28 per cent to 15.16 million tonne (MT) up to November in the current fiscal from 27.21 MT in the year-ago period, despite the escalating power demand.
"This shows the nation's commitment to self-reliance in coal production and minimising overall coal imports," the ministry said.
The government is persistent in its efforts to further enhance coal production, aiming to increase availability and reduce dependence on imported coal, thereby safeguarding foreign reserves.
Earlier this week, Coal and Mines Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed confidence that the country's coal production will cross one billion tonnes in the ongoing financial year.
The country's production target of the fossil fuel for 2023-24 is 1,012.14 MT.
Speaking during the launch of the ninth round of commercial coal mine auction, the minister said, "This year we are going to cross one billion tonnes production."
