(a) whether it is a fact that a proposal is being considered to make the mining industry of the country competitive at world level to increase the production of coal;
(b) if so, the details of the proposal and the improvements likely to be achieved by implementing these proposals;
(c) whether it is a fact that implementation of the above proposal would lead to increase in the prices of coal in the country; and
(d) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF COAL, POWER AND NEW AND RENEWABLE ENERGY (SHRI PIYUSH GOYAL)
(a) to (d): A study has been made by an expert agency for technology infusion and modernization of the mines in Coal India Ltd. (CIL) and the draft report has been submitted. The draft report has been sent to the subsidiaries companies for their comments. The comments so received shall further be suitably incorporated in the report and final report is to be placed for deliberations & approval. The implementation of the final recommendations is likely to bring in benefits/ improvements by introduction of suitable mine specific modern technology available internationally. It is likely to improve the operational control, equipment productivity and drilling & blasting productivity. It is expected to lead to development of skill of the personnel, enhanced cost efficiency and exploration capabilities. It is also expected to increase productivity & safety in mines of CIL. Economies of scale will decide upon adoption of various Technologies on the basis of techno- economic feasibility of the same.