Ministry of Coal: Joint Venture Agreement for Ammonium Nitrate Plant

Key Points and Concepts:

• CIL and BHEL signed a Joint Venture Agreement on 28th February 2024 in Delhi for an ammonium nitrate plant using surface coal gasification technology.
• The plant in Odisha will produce 2000 tons of ammonium nitrate per day and 6.60 Lakh tons annually.
• BHEL brings pressurized fluidized bed gasification technology while CIL supplies the required coal.
• The initiative supports the National Coal Gasification Mission and aims for Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Ammonium nitrate is crucial for bulk explosives used in mining operations.
• Gasification is a focus area for the ministry of coal to maximize coal usage efficiently.

Potential Exam Questions:

• What are the key entities involved in the Joint Venture Agreement for the Ammonium Nitrate Plant?
• Explain the significance of surface coal gasification technology in the production of ammonium nitrate.
• How does this project contribute to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative?

Strategies and Methodologies:

Understanding the technical aspects of surface coal gasification technology and its applications in the production of chemicals like ammonium nitrate can be useful for competitive exams in the energy sector.

Gasification is the highest priority area for the ministry of coal.

Important Takeaways: The collaboration between CIL and BHEL for the Ammonium Nitrate Plant signifies a crucial step towards maximizing coal resources efficiently, supporting industrial needs, and promoting self-reliance in chemical production.