As India celebrates Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, marking 75+ years of independence, the government continues to reaffirm its commitment to energy security, transparency, and inclusive growth. A major step in this direction is the Revised SHAKTI Policy, 2025—an upgraded, streamlined coal allocation mechanism announced by the Ministry of Coal.
The SHAKTI Policy, originally introduced in 2017, was aimed at ensuring fair and transparent coal linkages for the power sector. With the revised version now in place, the government has taken a bold leap forward by widening access, reducing complexity, and encouraging competition among power producers.
🔍 What’s New in SHAKTI 2025?
The Revised SHAKTI Policy simplifies the previous multiple-window system into just two streamlined categories for coal linkage allocation:
Window I: Coal linkage to Central and State Government Power Generators (GENCOs) at the Notified Price.
Window II: Coal linkage to all Power Generators, including Independent Power Producers (IPPs), at a premium over the Notified Price.
This consolidation brings greater clarity and efficiency, making it easier for both public and private power generators to secure coal in a timely and cost-effective manner.
⚡ Driving Accessibility and Fair Competition
The hallmark of SHAKTI 2025 is its non-discriminatory approach. Whether it is a large central GENCO or a private-sector IPP, the revised policy ensures equal opportunity and transparency in the coal linkage allocation process. This move is expected to:
Enhance competition among power producers,
Improve overall efficiency in coal utilization,
Encourage capacity expansion near coal mines (pit-head thermal plants),
Make electricity more affordable for consumers.
Increased availability of coal through streamlined linkages will allow power plants to operate at optimal levels, reducing their dependence on imported coal and price volatility in global markets.
🛠️ Boosting Mining and Regional Development
With improved coal allocation, mining activity is set to rise, particularly in coal-bearing states. This increased activity will lead to higher revenue generation for state governments, enabling more investments in local infrastructure, education, healthcare, and livelihoods. It’s a win-win—energizing both the national grid and regional economies.
🤝 Multi-Ministerial Coordination for Seamless Supply
Coal supply to power plants remains a dynamic and continuous process. To ensure smooth delivery, a robust oversight mechanism is already in place. A Sub-Group of key ministries (Coal, Power, Railways) and entities like CIL, SCCL, and CEA meet regularly to monitor operations and resolve bottlenecks.
Further strengthening this framework, an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC)—comprising top officials from the Railways, Coal, Power, and Environment Ministries—coordinates efforts to augment coal supply and expand power generation. This collaborative approach reflects the government’s resolve to maintain uninterrupted electricity supply across the country.
📘 For More Information
The full details of the Revised SHAKTI Policy, 2025 can be accessed on the Ministry of Coal’s website.
🇮🇳 Conclusion
SHAKTI 2025 is more than a policy—it’s a blueprint for a self-reliant, energy-secure India. By enhancing transparency, expanding eligibility, and fostering competition, it aligns perfectly with the spirit of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav—empowering citizens, industries, and regions alike.
As the country powers ahead on the path of growth and development, SHAKTI 2025 ensures that the lights stay on—and that the future remains bright.