What is India's target for coal mine closure by 2070?
The coal belt is the name given to the eastern part of India. The majority of the nation's coal is generated here for use in electricity production. Conversely, one to two percent of the work force of Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and jharkhand is employed in the coal mining industry. workers in heavy industries and power plants who handle coal are not included in this, though.
It is important to remember that india has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2070. Coal india is striving toward the objective of emphasizing renewable energy, particularly solar energy, with this in mind. The government is aggressively working to develop three gigawatts of solar energy in order to meet its goal of having net zero emissions by 2025–2026. It demonstrates how india is making progress toward the goal of switching from coal-based to renewable energy sources gradually. In addition, it has been reported that by 2022, 9.88 lakh indians would have work prospects in the renewable energy sector, notwithstanding the news of declining earnings in coal mines.
Aside from this, job openings in this industry are consistently growing. While 2.82 lakh job possibilities are accessible in solar PV and only 4.66 lakh jobs are available in hydropower.
What is required of coal miners?
Although laborers in coal mines have a rough existence, losing their jobs will make things even harder for them. It is crucial that these laborers be taught alternative tasks beforehand in such a case. in order for them to continue working and earning a living without having to quit their current occupations. It is crucial to prepare coal mine workers for alternative careers and occupations because of this. which calls for government action as well.