(a) whether the Government are contemplating any scheme to develop methane gas from coal as an alternative source of energy; and;
(b) if so, the present position of this scheme especially in West Bengal and coal mines of Jharia in Bihar?
(a) whether the Government are contemplating any scheme to develop methane gas from coal as an alternative source of energy; and;
(b) if so, the present position of this scheme especially in West Bengal and coal mines of Jharia in Bihar?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM & NATURAL GAS (SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)
(a) & (b) :- Yes, Sir. The Government of India has approved the policy for exploration and exploitation of Coal Bed Methane (CBM) in the country as an alternative source of energy. This policy provides for offer of blocks for exploration and exploitation of CBM through open global competitive bidding. Nine blocks throughout the country, including the states of West Bengal and Bihar, have been identified. Consultations with the concerned State Governments for offer of these blocks have been taken up.