Introduction

  • Recently, Chhattisgarh-based South Eastern Coalfields Limited’s (SECL) Gevra and Kusmunda coal mines have made India proud by securing the 2nd and 4th spot in the list of the world’s 10 largest coal mines by WorldAtlas.com.
  • Owned by Coal India Limited (CIL), these mines are part of India's central public sector enterprise.

Geographical Position

  • Gevra and Kusmunda mines are located in the Korba district of Chhattisgarh.
  • This region, rich in coal deposits, significantly contributes to the nation's coal production.

Mining Performance and Output

  • These mines annually produce over 100 million tons of coal, accounting for about 10% of India's total coal production.
  • Gevra emerged as the largest coal mine in the country in 2023, with an annual production of 52.5 million tons in FY 22-23 and 59 million tons in FY 23-24.
  • Kusmunda followed closely, producing over 50 million tons of coal in FY 23-24.

Technologies Used

  • High-end machineries like "Surface Miner" are being used for eco-friendly coal extraction without blasting.
  • For Overburden removal (uncover coal seam), Mines employ world’s leading HEMMs (Heavy Earth Moving Machinery) and Vertical Rippers for an environment-friendly, blast-free process.

Coal India Limited (CIL)

  • CIL, an Indian state-owned coal mining and refinery company, was established in November 1975 under the Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act, 1973.
  • The Act provides CIL a monopoly over coal mining and distribution activities in the country.
  • CIL is currently the world’s largest coal producer.

Important General Knowledge Points

  • Coal India Ltd (CIL) is a leading public sector undertaking and the biggest coal producer and supplier in India.
  • Initially, CIL was a fully government-owned entity until it underwent disinvestment in 2010, after which the government held a majority share with a share percentage standing at 67%.
  • With its mines ranking significantly in the top global spots, CIL is a significant player in India's energy and industrial sector.