Known to be close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Piyush Goyal took charge as Minister of State (Independent Charge) for three energy ministries — Coal, Power, and New and Renewable Energy. Speaking to reporters after assuming office of these ministries separately during the day, Goyal said these ministries have to work in tandem to cut down on costs and see that the objectives are achieved.

Making the energy sector more vibrant was the priority of the new Government, Goyal said. At the same time, he also emphasised that the country’s environmental interests have to be kept in mind while stating that his focus would be to find a composite solution. The Coal Ministry would work in tandem with the Environment Ministry to ensure faster clearance of mining projects, Goyal added.

“It is important to set processes right and work within a framework and policy and also work within a system that is laid down without discretionary exceptions being made,” Goyal said. “We can ensure transparency in the working of this Ministry. I am pretty confident that as we go along, things are rationalised, simplified and far more honest than what we have seen in the last few years”.

Private power Stressing the need for promoting private investments in the power sector, Goyal said the Government would provide all possible support to encourage investments. The Association of Power Producers (APP) has welcomed the Government’s move to bring power, coal and renewable energy ministries under one Minister.

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