Coal demand has surged following disruptions in liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies due to the Iran war.

As the Iran war disrupts global energy supplies, India-like other major economies-is increasingly turning to coal to meet its fuel demand.

Even as Washington and Tehran work towards a possible resolution, New Delhi is set to launch the 15th round of commercial coal mine auctions and hold a stakeholder consultation on Friday. The move by the coal ministry is aimed at boosting private sector participation in coal production amid rising energy needs.

Launched in 2020, the commercial coal mining programme has seen over 100 blocks offered across previous rounds, marking a key step in the government's push to liberalise the coal sector. "The Ministry of Coal is set to organise a stakeholder consultation on 'Atmanirbhar Bharat: Coal for Energy Security', along with the launch of the 15th Round of Commercial Coal Mine Auctions, on April 17, 2026," an official statement said.