Hyderabad, July 4 (RAHNUMA): Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy has urged Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) to scale up operations and secure new blocks. Emphasising its position as South India’s sole major public-sector coal producer, he stated that expanding production is vital to strengthening the country’s energy security amid rising demand.
Chairing a comprehensive review meeting at Singareni Bhavan, Hyderabad on Sunday, the Union Minister conducted an extensive review of SCCL’s operational performance and future strategy. He examined mine-wise production, dispatch, overburden removal, status of ongoing and proposed mining projects, statutory clearances, and future expansion plans.
He directed the SCCL to actively participate in the upcoming coal block auctions conducted by the Ministry of Coal to secure additional mining blocks and strengthen its production capacity.
Kishan Reddy stressed the need to prepare a comprehensive 10–15 year long-term strategic action plan, keeping in view the rapidly increasing demand for electricity across the country. He observed that coal would continue to remain a critical component of India’s energy mix for many years and advised SCCL to significantly enhance coal production while simultaneously reducing production costs and improving operational efficiency.
He stated that SCCL should not confine itself to commercial success alone, but should move forward with a long-term vision aligned with the country’s future energy requirements.
Highlighting the increasing competition in the energy sector, Kishan Reddy said that public sector enterprises must continuously improve quality standards and enhance productivity through dedicated efforts by all employees.
He emphasised the importance of creating awareness among employees regarding the actual status and challenges of the company through transparent communication.
The Minister further suggested the constitution of a special committee to formulate and implement reforms aimed at ensuring the company’s long-term growth and sustainability. He called upon all stakeholders to collectively contribute towards SCCL’s development and assured the company’s management of the Central government’s full support.
Kishan Reddy observed that coal gasification offers significant opportunities in India and advised SCCL to initiate a coal gasification project, even on a pilot scale.
He particularly suggested exploring such a project in the Ramagundam industrial region, considering the presence of fertilizer and other industries, so that SCCL can capitalise on emerging opportunities in the clean coal value chain.
