ANNOUNCEMENTS
India’s coal sector stands at the heart of a complex energy transition, balancing the imperatives of economic growth, energy security, and climate commitments. As the country navigates its path toward net zero, the challenge is not just to decarbonize, but to ensure that the transition is just—protecting the livelihoods, rights, and well-being of workers and communities in coal-dependent regions. This study critically examines the management of just transition in the Indian coal sector, with a dual focus on the necessity of structured, long-term planning and the transformative potential of localized approaches. Drawing from comparative case studies across 12 global coal regions and leveraging both quantitative and qualitative data, the research evaluates the socio-economic impacts of planned versus unplanned coal mine closures. Key variables are analysed to provide a multidimensional view of transition outcomes. The findings reveal that comprehensive, proactive planning by coal companies, coupled with empowered local governance and context-specific interventions, significantly mitigates negative impacts and fosters resilient, inclusive development. The study highlights actionable strategies for integrating just transition into core business and policy frameworks, emphasizing the need for participatory governance, strategic resource allocation, and capacity building at the local level. These insights offer a roadmap for policymakers, industry leaders, and communities striving for a fair and sustainable energy future beyond decarbonization.
Keywords: Just transition, coal sector, India, energy transition, localization, structured planning, socio-economic impact, worker retention, economic diversification, policy frameworks, participatory governance, capacity building.
