Syllabus: GS-III, Subject: Economy Topic: Taxation, Issue: Coal Imports
Context: Calls for a bigger carbon tax on higher quality imported coal while cutting rates for domestic coal.
- To promote domestic coal production and usage.
- India is the second largest importer of coal .
Characteristics of Indian coal:
- High Ash Content: Ranging from 35% to 45%, compared to the global average of around 15%.
- Hence, reduced overall heat generation efficiency.
- Low Sulphur Content: This is a positive aspect. Sulphur emissions contribute to air pollution. Low sulphur means low pollution.
- Low Ash Fusion Temperature: Temperature at which coal ash melts and becomes sticky.
- Challenge for power plants causing operational issues.
