Dr Swayam Sampurna Panigrahi, Assistant Professor, Operations, IFMR GSB, Krea University published a paper titled Exploring barriers towards effective coal supply – A non-core perspective using ISM-DEMATEL in the journal Resources Policy. The publication is co-authored with Dr Rajesh Katiyar, International Management Institute, Bhubaneswar, Dr Ranjit Roy Ghatak, International Management Institute, Bhubaneswar, and Dr Ritu Singh, Indian Institute of Management, Raipur.
While other energy sources are becoming more popular, India is expected to continue to depend on coal in the coming years. This study aims to identify and assess barriers to the efficient supply of coal to non-core industries reliant on this energy source. Employing a hybrid approach combining Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) and Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL), the authors analyse the hierarchical structure and causal relationships among barriers affecting the coal sourcing process. The hybrid model emphasizes that the ‘biased government approach’ and ‘lack of mining technology and infrastructure’ are crucial barriers. These key barriers exert a substantial influence on other factors within the scope of our study. Unlike earlier studies, this research enhances theoretical understanding by thoroughly exploring barriers to effective coal sourcing strategies. Policymakers engaged in decision-making for the non-core coal-dependent sector in India can benefit from this research. Attention should be directed towards addressing key barriers influencing effective coal sourcing, specifically focusing on ‘biased approach by the government’, ‘lack of mining technology and infrastructure’, ‘social and political constraints’, ‘low research and development’, and ‘lack of skilled personnel’.
