India's Coal Imports Plummet Amidst Domestic Stockpile Surge

India's coal imports experienced a significant decline, dropping by 8.5% to 16.55 million tonnes in February. This downturn is attributed to record domestic stockpiles and elevated seaborne prices. The weak import trend is projected to persist this month as domestic miners strive to reduce existing inventories.

This strategic shift aligns with India's broader initiative towards self-reliance in coal production. Overall coal production in 2024-25 reached 1,047.523 MT, a 4.98% increase from the previous year. Comforting for energy security, coal stocks at thermal power plants remain around 55 million tonnes, adequate for 24 days of operation based on recent consumption rates, ensuring no deficit in power generation.