Cabinet approves ₹37,500 crore coal gasification scheme to boost energy security

Hindustan Times reports on the Indian government's significant move to bolster energy security through a substantial ₹37,500 crore coal gasification scheme. This decision by the Union Cabinet underscores India's strategic imperative to leverage its vast domestic coal reserves, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with import dependency, particularly in light of global geopolitical volatility. The scheme directly addresses the nation's vulnerability, highlighted by a considerable import bill for crucial commodities like Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), urea, and methanol. By promoting coal gasification, India seeks to convert its abundant coal resources into synthesis gas (syngas), a versatile feedstock for various industrial products. This initiative is presented not just as an energy security measure but also as a catalyst for economic growth, projected to generate approximately 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Furthermore, the scheme strongly aligns with the government's flagship 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) and 'Make in India' campaigns, signaling a determined push towards domestic manufacturing and reduced reliance on foreign supplies.