New Delhi, Nov 26 (IANS): State miner Coal India Limited (CIL) has identified 126 new projects with an estimated capacity of 438.04 million tonnes (MT) to be taken up during 12th Plan period.

"Out of these 60 projects are likely to contribute about 88 MT during the terminal year of 12th Plan, that is, 2016-17," the coal ministry said in a release Tuesday.

CIL has proposed an outlay of Rs.25,400 crore in the 12th plan period, in addition to an ad-hoc provision of Rs.35,000 crore to acquire coal assets abroad and develop the coal blocks acquired in Mozambique.

Other CIL initiatives planned to increase coal production include the public-private partnership MDO (Mine Developer and Operator) mode of operation, already initiated in seven projects and appointing a consultant of international standing for the modernization of its mines. The bid for selection of consultant is under process, the statement said.

Coal India's first tender for coal import is likely to be for about 15 MT. CIL had earlier said that about 55 to 60 power plants, including some state power utilities, have indicated they want imported coal from the state miner.