Promoting Clean Coal Technology: Coal Gasification

The Ministry of Coal in India is focused on promoting clean coal technology, specifically coal gasification, as part of a transition to cleaner energy sources like solar and wind power. Coal remains crucial for India's energy needs, with initiatives like 'Make In India' expected to increase demand.

• The Coal Gasification Mission targets gasifying 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030 through projects in collaboration with Coal India Limited (CIL).
• Financial assistance of ₹8500 crores has been allocated to incentivize coal gasification projects, aiming to demonstrate viability, accelerate downstream markets, and create economic value.
• Joint ventures like CIL-GAIL and CIL-BHEL are set up to establish plants using surface coal gasification technology, contributing to India's self-reliance goals.
• Gasification technology will reduce imports, create employment, and support India's development, aligning with environmental sustainability through initiatives like Coal Bed Methane extraction and Carbon Capture and Storage.

Strategies and Methodologies:

The Ministry focuses on financial schemes, joint ventures, and research to promote coal gasification, aiming to drive innovation, investment, and sustainable development in the sector.

"The adoption of gasification technology in India will revolutionize the coal sector, reducing reliance on imports and contributing to India's self-reliance goals." - Ministry of Coal

Key Takeaways:

The Ministry's emphasis on clean coal initiatives, especially in coal gasification, showcases a significant shift towards sustainable energy practices. Aspirants should focus on understanding the impact of these technologies on energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability for competitive exam preparations.