Coal India to Invest ₹1,900 Crore in R&D by FY2030 to Modernise Mining and Advance Clean Coal Technologies

Coal India Limited (CIL) has unveiled an ambitious plan to invest ₹1,900 crore in research and development (R&D) by FY2030 as part of its long-term strategy to modernise mining operations, improve productivity, and support cleaner coal technologies. The initiative reflects the company’s commitment to adopting advanced technologies while strengthening India’s mining and energy ecosystem.

The proposed investment will focus on several priority areas, including clean coal technologies, sustainable mining practices, net-zero solutions, mine repurposing, environmentally friendly construction materials, and the recovery of rare earth and critical minerals. Through these initiatives, Coal India aims to improve operational efficiency while supporting the country’s growing industrial and infrastructure requirements.

To accelerate innovation, Coal India is collaborating with leading scientific institutions and research organisations across the country. As part of this effort, the company has committed ₹253 crore to research projects at three Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The funding will be released in phases to support the development of advanced technologies that enhance mining productivity, resource utilisation, and environmental performance.

Coal India’s National Centre for Coal and Energy Research is currently managing 19 research projects with a combined investment of ₹225 crore. These projects cover advanced mining technologies, cleaner energy systems, sustainable resource extraction, and innovative methods for recovering valuable minerals from existing reserves.

The company has already demonstrated its growing focus on technology-driven development. During FY2024-25, Coal India’s R&D expenditure increased fourfold to ₹245 crore compared to ₹61 crore in the previous financial year. The latest investment roadmap builds on this momentum and reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to innovation.

Apart from improving mining efficiency, the investment is expected to strengthen India’s domestic capabilities in critical mineral recovery, reduce environmental impact, and enhance energy security. The initiative also supports the Government of India’s vision of building a technologically advanced and globally competitive mining sector.

As India’s largest coal producer, Coal India continues to play a vital role in meeting the nation’s energy demand. Its planned R&D investment is expected to create a stronger partnership between industry and academia while accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies that will shape the future of sustainable mining and resource management in India.