Centre Clarifies on Coal Gasification Scheme

The Ministry of Coal has rejected reports claiming that its ₹37,500-crore coal gasification incentive scheme has failed to attract interest. The ministry clarified that reports suggesting there were no takers for setting up projects under the scheme were premature and incorrect. It confirmed that applications have already been received from Talcher Fertilisers Limited (TFL) and NTPC. The application window will remain open until September 7.

The scheme aims to promote the value-added utilisation of domestic coal and reduce India’s dependence on energy and chemical imports. The government expects the initiative to catalyse investments of around ₹2.5–3 lakh crore and generate nearly 50,000 employment opportunities. India has also set a target of achieving 100 million tonnes of coal gasification capacity by 2030.