25 June 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Ministry of Coal initiates India’s First Ever Pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification in Jharkhand

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2028176 )

Topic: GS3 – Indian Economy –  Infrastructure, GS3 – Science and Technology

Context

The Ministry of Coal, via Eastern Coalfields Limited, has launched India’s first Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) pilot project in Jharkhand’s Kasta coal block. This initiative aims to convert coal into valuable industrial gases, enhancing energy security and promoting sustainable coal resource utilisation.

Analysis of the news:

• The Ministry of Coal, through Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), launched a pilot project for Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) at the Kasta coal block in Jamtara District, Jharkhand.
• This initiative aims to convert coal into valuable gases like methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide, which can be used for synthetic natural gas, chemical feedstocks, and various industrial applications.

Underground Coal Gasification (UCG):

Definition: Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) is a process of converting coal into gas while it is still in the coal seam. Process: It involves drilling injection and production wells into the coal seam. Air or oxygen is injected to ignite and partially combust the coal. Products: The gas produced, known as synthesis gas or syngas, typically contains hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, and carbon dioxide. Uses: Syngas can be used for power generation, production of chemicals, liquid fuels, and hydrogen. Advantages: UCG allows access to coal resources that are otherwise uneconomical to mine, reduces surface disturbance, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional coal mining. Challenges: Potential environmental impacts include groundwater contamination and subsidence. Technological and regulatory hurdles also exist for widespread implementation.

• UCG provides access to coal resources that are otherwise economically unviable through traditional mining methods.
• The project is part of Coal India’s broader strategy to adopt advanced coal gasification technologies and position India as a leader in this field.
• A comprehensive policy framework for UCG in coal and lignite-bearing areas was approved by the Ministry of Coal in December 2015.
• The Kasta coal block was selected by Coal India for implementing UCG technology tailored to Indian geo-mining conditions.
• The project, managed by ECL in collaboration with CMPDI Ranchi and Ergo Exergy Technologies Inc. (EETI) from Canada, spans two years and consists of two phases.
• Phase one, which began on June 22, 2024, involves preparing a Technical Feasibility Report through borehole drilling and core testing.
• Phase two will focus on coal gasification at a pilot scale.
• The successful execution of this project is expected to revolutionise India’s coal industry by enhancing energy security, promoting sustainable development, and establishing new standards in coal resource utilisation.
• The Ministry of Coal supports this initiative, emphasising its potential positive impact on India’s energy landscape and commitment to innovation and efficiency in the coal sector.

PYQ: In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is sSll inevitable for development.” Discuss. (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-1 2017)

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the Underground Coal Gasification (UCG) pilot project launched by Eastern Coalfields Limited in Jharkhand for India’s energy sector. (150 Words /10 marks)

2. Maharashtra Governor releases book titled ‘Gateways to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region’

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2028271 )

Topic: GS1 –  IndianHistory

Context

The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais, released a book titled ‘Gateways to the Sea: Historic Ports and Docks of Mumbai Region’ at Raj Bhavan Mumbai on June 22, 2024. Published by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, this book, compiled by the Maritime Mumbai Museum Society, explores the history and development of various historic and modern ports in Mumbai.

Historic Ports

1. Sopara:
   1. Ancient port dating back to the Maurya and Satavahana periods.
   1. A significant trade centre connecting India with ancient cultures.
2. Vasai:
   1. Known for its Portuguese fort, the port played a crucial role during Portuguese rule.
   1. Was an important maritime trading post.
3. Versova:
   1. Fishing village turned port, historically significant for its Koli fishing community.
   1. Provided a natural harbour for smaller vessels.
4. Mahim:
   1. Important trade centre during the mediaeval period.
   1. Fortified by the Portuguese and later captured by the British.
5. Kalyan:
   1. Historical port town used extensively during the Maurya and Satavahana eras.
   1. Served as a major trading hub due to its strategic location.
6. Thane:
   1. One of the oldest ports in India, known from ancient Greek writings.
   1. Played a pivotal role in maritime trade during the mediaeval period.
7. Panvel:
   1. Port town in the Raigad district, significant for coastal and inland trade.
   1. Connected with major trade routes historically.
8. Alibag:
   1. Known for its beaches and fort, it was an important Maratha naval base.
   1. Played a key role in maritime defence and trade.
9. Chaul:
   1. Ancient port town near Alibag, known for its trade with the Roman Empire.
   1. Archaeological site with remnants of various civilizations.
10. Mandad:
    1. Lesser-known port but significant in local trade and maritime activities.
    1. Served as a fishing and small trade port.
11. Janjira:
    1. Known for the formidable Janjira fort, never conquered by invaders.
    1. Important maritime stronghold of the Siddis.

Modern Ports

1. Mazagon Dock:
   1. Established during the British era, one of the oldest shipyards in India.
   1. Now a major shipbuilding yard for the Indian Navy and other vessels.
2. Mumbai Port:
   1. Major port in Western India, crucial for trade and commerce.
   1. Handles a significant portion of India’s maritime cargo.
3. Bombay Dock:
   1. Historic dockyard dating back to the 18th century.
   1. Important for ship repairs and maintenance.
4. Sassoon Dock:
   1. Built in 1875 by David Sassoon, one of the oldest docks in Mumbai.
   1. Famous for its fish market and significant for fisheries.
5. Ferry Wharf (Bhaucha Dhakka):
   1. Major ferry wharf handling passenger ferries and fishing activities.
   1. Integral for local transport and fish trade.

These ports collectively showcase the rich maritime heritage of Mumbai, highlighting its evolution from ancient trade centres to modern commercial hubs.