Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects: Ministry clarifies position on applications

The Ministry of Coal has issued a clarification regarding the ₹37,500 crore Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects, addressing press reports that suggested the scheme attracted no applications. The Ministry clarified that such reports are premature as the first-round application deadline is 7 September 2026. Approved by the Union Cabinet on 13 May 2026, the scheme aims to promote coal and lignite conversion into high-value products like syngas, methanol, ammonia, and urea to reduce import dependence. The Ministry confirmed that Talcher Fertilisers Limited and NTPC Limited have already submitted applications. The initiative features a rolling-round mechanism and is targeted at achieving 100 million tonnes of coal gasification capacity by 2030, catalyzing investments up to ₹3 lakh crore.