Energy · GS3
Scheme for surface coal and lignite gasification
One line
The Cabinet approved a ₹37,500 crore scheme to promote surface coal and lignite gasification and target 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030.
Summary
Coal gasification converts solid coal into syngas, which can be used to produce chemicals, fertiliser, hydrogen-related products, and synthetic fuels. The policy seeks import substitution, but gasification is not the same as zero-carbon energy and must be assessed for emissions, water use, ash, and economics.
PYQ pattern
UPSC energy questions often test the relationship between coal, gasification, hydrogen, fertiliser, and emissions. Use the official UPSC archive and compare energy security with environmental cost.
Core notes
- Gasification uses heat and controlled oxygen or steam to convert carbon-based feedstock into synthesis gas.
- Syngas mainly contains carbon monoxide and hydrogen, with composition depending on feedstock and process.
- The scheme offers incentives linked to plant and machinery and project milestones.
- Carbon capture, process efficiency, water management, and downstream product choice affect the climate profile.
Prelims lens
- Gasification and combustion are different processes. Combustion aims at heat release; gasification aims at syngas production.
- Syngas is not identical to natural gas.
- A financial outlay is the scheme envelope, not the amount already spent on every project.
MCQ 1
Coal gasification primarily aims to produce:
- A. syngas
- B. raw milk
- C. only oxygen
- D. groundwater
Reveal answerHide answer
A
Gasification converts coal or lignite into synthesis gas, which can be processed into downstream products.
MCQ 2
Consider the following statements:
- Coal gasification is automatically a zero-carbon process.
- Water use and emissions need assessment in gasification projects.
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Reveal answerHide answer
B
Gasification can support import substitution but still has emissions and resource impacts. Its climate profile depends on technology and controls.
Mains
Question, 10 marks, 150 words: Can coal gasification improve India's energy and industrial security without locking in high environmental costs? Examine.
Approach:
- Explain gasification, syngas, and downstream products.
- Discuss import substitution, fertiliser, chemicals, and energy security.
- Examine carbon emissions, water, ash, technology risk, and cost competitiveness.
- Recommend strict environmental standards, life-cycle assessment, carbon management, and technology-neutral evaluation.