Coking Coal Goes Critical: A Massive Win for Indian Steel

In a significant step to enhance India’s mineral security, the government has classified coking coal as a critical and strategic mineral under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act).

The decision supports the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047, following recommendations from the High-Level Committee on Viksit Bharat implementation and policy inputs from NITI Aayog. Coking coal, vital for the domestic steel industry, is expected to reduce dependence on imports, which have risen from 51.20 million tonnes in 2020-21 to 57.58 million tonnes in 2024-25.

Currently, nearly 95% of the steel sector’s coking coal requirements are met through imports, resulting in substantial foreign exchange outflows. Recognizing it as a strategic mineral is expected to streamline approvals, improve ease of doing business, and strengthen the domestic economy.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.