Coal as a Vital Energy Resource: A brief Overview of its Inception from the British period to now, with special reference to Salanpur Coal Belt Area of West Bengal

Abstract

This paper discusses the history of coal mining in India, particularly during the British colonial period and the subsequent nationalization of the coal mining industry. It also focuses on the coal mining scenario in West Bengal and provides a brief history of ECL. Special attention is given to the Salanpur Coal field area of West Bengal. The rearrangement of leasehold areas in ECL command areas for the renewal of mining leases in the Salanpur area in 2002 is also documented in this paper. Additionally, it highlights production, manpower, and profit/loss statements for the last five years in this area.