The government has launched a focused exploration drive to boost coal bed methane production from unexplored and abandoned coal-bearing areas, aiming to strengthen energy security and expand unconventional gas output.

The Ministry of Coal will assess CBM potential in untapped coalfields as well as de-coaled or abandoned mines that are no longer viable for conventional coal extraction. Coal India and its subsidiaries are identifying suitable areas within their leaseholds, and a block in Jharkhand’s Jharia region has already been awarded for development. India holds an estimated 92 trillion cubic feet of CBM resources across 12 states, offering an alternative gas source and supporting emissions reduction.

Current CBM production stands at about 2.27 million standard cubic mtrs. per day, but the government aims to nearly double output to five MMSCMD by 2027–28.