New Delhi: India's coal stockpile has increased to 88.01 million tonnes as of August 23, marking a growth of 24.7% compared to the previous year, according to data released by the Ministry of Coal.

"This significant expansion in coal stock positions highlights the government's dedication to ensuring a robust and dependable coal supply, a crucial factor in India's energy landscape," stated the ministry.

Coal India Limited (CIL), the state-owned mining behemoth, has also demonstrated impressive progress in managing its pithead coal stock. As of August 23, CIL reported a stockpile of 46.13 million tonnes, showcasing a growth rate of 45.5% in comparison to the 31.70 million tonnes held on the same date in 2022. This achievement underscores CIL's efficient stock management strategies and operational prowess.

India's power sector has been receiving a consistent coal supply, with cumulative coal dispatches for the fiscal year 2023-24, until August 23, 2023, reaching 307.97 million tonnes. This figure reflects a noteworthy growth rate of 5.6% in contrast to the corresponding period of the previous fiscal year, indicating a successful endeavor to cater to the nation's energy requirements.

The coal industry has also heightened production efforts, achieving a production level of 340.31 million tonnes, marking a 10.52% increase over the previous fiscal year. Concurrently, the overall coal dispatches have surged to 371.11 million tonnes, compared to the 338.66 million tonnes dispatched during the same period in the previous fiscal year.