Coal India Limited (CIL) and Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL) have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to evaluate the development of a Coal Gasification-based Ammonia-Urea Plant at HURL's existing facility in Sindri, Jharkhand. The strategic agreement marks a pivotal step toward cleaner energy deployment and enhanced fertiliser security in India.

The collaboration focuses on harnessing domestic coal resources via gasification technology to generate synthesis gas (syngas). This syngas will serve as the primary feedstock for producing ammonia and urea, traditionally reliant on expensive natural gas.

The initial phase of the MoU mandates both state-owned entities to systematically assess the technical, commercial, and execution modalities of the proposed plant. A key immediate milestone is the preparation of a Preliminary Feasibility Report (PFR) to confirm the financial and technological viability before formal investment decisions are enacted.

This partnership aligns directly with the Government of India's national mandate to promote clean coal technologies and transition toward self-reliance in the agricultural sector. By converting coal into syngas, the project aims to reduce India’s heavily burdened import bill for natural gas and finished chemical fertilisers.

The MoU was signed in the presence of the Director (Business Development-CIL), Vice Chairman (HURL & Executive Director-CIL), Managing Director (HURL) and other esteemed dignitaries from CIL and HURL.