For progressive improvement in the economic growth of a developing country like India, sustainable energy supply is of paramount significance. Coal, being a relatively cheap and abundant energy resource in contrast to other meager hydrocarbon resource potential in India, remains the focus of attention of the energy planners ever since the oil crunch of the early seventies as well as ever increasing energy demand in the country. A sound data base is a prerequisite for developing a strategic coal sector plan
for the country on a continuing basis.