Government Schemes 6 September 2026 · Event date: 5 September 2026

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

The Ministry of Coal has clarified that media reports claiming the ₹37,500 crore Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects has received no applications are premature and factually incorrect. The Ministry stated that the first-round application window remains open until September 7, 2026, and that Talcher Fertilisers Limited and NTPC Limited have already submitted their applications.

Why It Matters

This press release is relevant for competitive exams under current affairs related to government schemes, energy policy, and the Ministry of Coal.

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In Simple Words

The Ministry of Coal rejected news reports stating that the ₹37,500 crore surface coal and lignite gasification scheme has no takers. The Ministry explained that the deadline for the first round of applications is September 7, 2026, making any conclusion about participation premature.

Furthermore, Talcher Fertilisers Limited and NTPC Limited have already applied through the portal. The scheme operates on a rolling basis with two-month rounds, aimed at achieving 100 million tonnes of coal gasification capacity by 2030 and catalyzing large investments.

Key Points

  • The Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects has a financial outlay of ₹37,500 crore.
  • The scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on May 13, 2026.
  • The first-round deadline for submission of applications is September 7, 2026.
  • Talcher Fertilisers Limited (TFL) and NTPC Limited have already submitted applications.
  • Application rounds operate on a rolling basis, remaining open for two months each.
  • The scheme aims to achieve 100 million tonnes of coal gasification capacity by 2030.
  • The initiative is expected to catalyse investments of approximately ₹2.5 lakh crore to ₹3 lakh crore across nearly 25 projects.
  • The scheme targets the generation of around 50,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities.

Exam Angle

Ministry
Ministry of Coal
Financial outlay
₹37,500 crore
Cabinet approval date
13 May 2026
First-round application deadline
7 September 2026

A. ₹37,500 crore

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