India's Coal Stocks Enough for 62 Days as Supply Strengthens

The steady rise in coal movement reflects ongoing efforts to keep power plants well supplied while maintaining stable energy production across the country.

India's coal supply to the power sector remained strong in July 2026, supported by higher production, faster despatch and increased deliveries to thermal power plants. The latest figures from the Ministry of Coal show that fuel availability continues to improve, giving the power sector a comfortable stock position as electricity demand remains high. The steady rise in coal movement reflects ongoing efforts to keep power plants well supplied while maintaining stable energy production across the country.

Coal production reached 69.75 million tonnes (MT) in July 2026, up from 64.88 MT during the same month last year. The increase of 7.51 percent points to steady growth in domestic mining activity. Coal despatch recorded an even stronger performance, rising to 86.85 MT compared with 73.58 MT in July 2025. The 18.03 percent jump highlights improved movement of coal from mines to consumers, supported by efficient transportation and logistics.

Higher Supplies Reach Thermal Power Plants

Thermal power plants received 68.83 MT of coal during July, an increase of 13.41 percent from 60.69 MT received in the corresponding period last year. The Ministry of Coal said the consistent rise in supplies reflects its focus on ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability for electricity generation, with Indian Railways continuing to play an important role in moving coal across the country. The stronger supply chain is expected to help power plants maintain operations without fuel shortages during periods of high electricity demand.

Coal Stocks Provide Comfortable Buffer

As of 4 August 2026, thermal power plants held 34.55 MT of coal in stock. Another 113 MT was available at mine pitheads and in transit, taking the total coal stock to around 148 MT. According to the Ministry, the available inventory is enough to meet about 62 days of coal consumption by the power sector. The stock position provides a healthy reserve and strengthens India's energy security by reducing the risk of supply disruptions.

The Ministry of Coal said it will continue monitoring the supply chain closely to ensure uninterrupted coal availability for the power sector while supporting the country's growing energy needs and its broader goals of energy self-reliance.