G Kishan Reddy Takes Charge as Coal and Mines Minister with Focus on Boosting Domestic Production

G Kishan Reddy officially took charge as India's Coal and Mines Minister, emphasizing the need to boost domestic production and reduce coal imports. The ceremony was attended by Pralhad Joshi, the former minister for these departments. Reddy highlighted India's improvement in coal and electricity supply over the past decade.

G Kishan Reddy officially stepped into his new role as India's Coal and Mines Minister on Thursday, emphasizing the imperative to increase domestic fossil-fuel production and cut down on coal imports. The event was graced by Pralhad Joshi, former holder of the same position under the previous Narendra Modi administration.

Speaking to reporters following his inauguration, Reddy said, "We should reduce imports and increase domestic production." He noted that India's coal import surged by 7.7 percent to 268.24 million tonnes in the fiscal year 2024.

Reflecting on the past decade, Reddy mentioned that there was a significant coal shortage ten years ago, leading to electricity supply issues. However, he also pointed out the substantial improvement in power availability over the last decade. Reddy committed to thoroughly reviewing the department before setting new priorities, asserting that both coal and mines ministries would work in unison to strengthen India over the next five years with "determination, dedication, discipline, and devotion."