During a Lok Sabha session, Union Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted the transformation in the country's coal sector, stating that the establishment of a robust and transparent system prevents discretionary allocation of coal, even by the coal minister himself. Joshi emphasized that the current system prohibits any unilateral allocation of even a kilogram of coal or a coal block, contrasting it with past practices marked by massive scams in coal block allocations.

Joshi underscored the country's ambitious goal of achieving a coal production target of one billion tonnes, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India). He highlighted the significant changes implemented in the coal sector, emphasizing the introduction of commercial coal mining. Joshi expressed optimism that this move would enhance efficiency, induce healthy competition in coal production, attract investments, and consequently generate more employment opportunities within the sector.

The minister's remarks emphasized the shift from previous opaque and potentially corrupt coal block allocations to the current transparent and accountable system, signifying a concerted effort towards reforming the coal sector for the country's benefit.