India’s Coal Imports Decline 5.83% in August 2026

India’s coal imports declined by 5.83 per cent in August 2026, falling to 104.57 million tonnes (MT) from 111.05 MT in the corresponding month last year, according to the Ministry of Coal.

The country imported 6.48 MT less coal in August compared to the same month in 2025. The decline reflects efforts to boost domestic coal production, improve availability and reduce dependence on imported fuel.

Coal imports by power plants fell by 6.39 per cent, from 22.77 MT in August 2025 to 21.32 MT in August 2026. Imports for blending at domestic coal-based power plants registered a sharper decline of 35.23 per cent, dropping from 4.64 MT to 3 MT during the period.

However, coal imports by imported coal-based power plants, which are primarily designed to operate on imported fuel, recorded a marginal increase of 0.98 per cent, rising from 18.13 MT to 18.31 MT.

The share of imported coal in India’s total coal consumption also declined from 21.20 per cent in August 2025 to 19.30 per cent in August 2026, a reduction of 1.90 percentage points.

Coking coal imports, which cater to the requirements of the steel industry, fell by 4.18 per cent, from 28.49 MT to 27.30 MT. The Ministry noted that import requirements in this category continue to be influenced by the quality and characteristics of domestic coal reserves and the specific raw material needs of the steel sector.

The Ministry of Coal is focusing on increasing domestic production and offtake, strengthening First Mile Connectivity and improving coal evacuation infrastructure. It is also monitoring coal stock levels at thermal power plants to ensure adequate supplies.

Coordinated efforts with the Ministry of Railways, Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries are aimed at ensuring timely coal transportation and supply to power utilities.

The Ministry said the decline in imports, particularly for blending at domestic coal-based power plants, highlights the importance of strengthening domestic production and supply-chain infrastructure. It added that efforts would continue to reduce import dependence wherever feasible while ensuring reliable coal availability for the power and industrial sectors.

-PIB