In the current dynamic and evolving scenario, the crucial need for mines and metal is irrefutable and mining continues as a potentially powerful engine for development and growth. Iron & Steel and Coal Sector contributes significantly in the economic and inclusive growth of the country. Considering the recent reforms and policy initiatives, need for adoption of state-of-the-art technology, artificial intelligence and to achieve the committed target of COP-26, it is imperative to work out the appropriate strategies for the growth of Coal and Iron & Steel sector.

Among fossil fuels, India is well-endowed with huge coal resources of 361 billion tonnes. India is the second largest coal producing country all over the world. During the year 2021-22, the country achieved 778 million tonnes of coal production. The Economic Survey 2021-22 projects coal demand in the range of 1.3-1.5 billion tonnes by 2030 from the current level of about 1000 million tonnes and it is projected that coal demand will continue to rise.

Coal is a critical fuel and input for a variety of industries ranging from generation of power to steel, iron ore, aluminium, cement and many other commodities and goods. With around 55% share, coal occupies the major space in India's energy basket. There is huge impetus on greener and renewable energy forms to migrate from fossil driven energy economy to cleaner sources aiming reduced carbon emissions. However, despite focus on renewable, coal is bound to continue as a primary source of energy to meet the growing development needs of India.

India is favourably endowed with rich and large resources of iron ore which is the main raw material for the production of steel. From a capacity of 1 million tonnes at the time of independence, India's annual crude steel production capacity has now risen to 154 million tonnes and India has become the world's second largest producer of steel.

India's strong growth in crude steel and finished steel production has been supported and enabled by vibrant sponge iron and pig iron industries which serve as crucial inputs for the steel industry.  The National Steel Policy projected steel production capacity of 300 million tonnes by 2030-31. The policy also envisages production of 255 million tonnes of steel and a robust finished steel per capita consumption of 160 Kg by 2030-31.

In the above backdrop, FIMI is organising a 2 days “Conference on Iron & Steel and Coal - Emerging Trends and Challenges” from 15–16 January, 2023 at HITEX International Convention and Exhibition Center, Hyderabad in association with Coal India Ltd., NMDC Ltd. and Singareni Collieries Company Ltd. The conference will also host exhibition of advanced and innovative mining technologies, artificial intelligence, modern exploration and mining equipment.