Chennai, 2 May 2025 — A crucial high-level meeting aimed at strengthening Tamil Nadu’s energy security was held today in Chennai. The meeting brought together Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Government of India, and Shri N. Muruganandam, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu, to discuss collaborative measures to ensure the State’s growing energy needs are met efficiently.
Prominent officials in attendance included Shri Prasanna Kumar Motupalli, CMD, NLC India Limited; Shri Sanjeev Kumar Kassi, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Coal; Shri Mukesh Choudhary, Director (Marketing), Coal India Limited; and Dr. Alby John Varghese, IAS, Managing Director, Tamil Nadu Power Generation Corporation Limited (TANGEDCO).
The deliberations centered around Tamil Nadu’s projected power demand and the availability of lignite and coal — vital components in meeting peak load conditions during the upcoming summer and monsoon seasons. The meeting also addressed key issues related to NLC India Limited (NLCIL), including land acquisition for lignite mines, the promotion of Overburden to M-Sand conversion in Neyveli mines, operationalization of the Neyveli airport, and the proposed formation of a joint venture between TNGECL and NIRL.
The State Government assured its full cooperation in resolving pending issues and facilitating smoother operations, reflecting a proactive and progressive approach to securing Tamil Nadu’s energy future.
This collaborative effort is expected to significantly ease supply-side challenges and ensure reliable, affordable, and sustainable power for the State while advancing the interests of NLCIL.
