As per Ministry of Coal, Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of imported coal share fell from 13.94% (2004-05 to 2013-14) to -2.29% (2014-15 to 2023-24).

• Under Open General Licence: Coal can be freely imported by the consumers themselves considering their needs based on their commercial consideration. 

Measures taken to reduce coal import

• Amendment of Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957: to allow captive mines to sell up to 50% of their annual production.
• Foreign Direct Investment(FDI): 100%  FDI allowed for commercial mining. 
• Coal Area Expansion: Taking up new projects and expansion of existing projects,auction of coal blocks to private companies/PSUs,etc.
• Single Window Clearance portal: for the coal sector to speed up the operationalization of coal mines.

Challenges of Coal Mining

• Non availability of domestic production of high grade coals like coking coal, anthracite and low ash thermal coal, etc in India.
• Non-Payment of commensurate Coal value along with huge outstanding dues by Power Sector consumers.
• Un-seasonal and extended Rainfall in the coal bearing areas.