Energy transition will come at a cost to certain sections of society. If the aim is to go net-zero (be it 2050 or 2070), one will have to replace coal-based generation with renewable power. This is not to say that if this issue is addressed, one will successfully decarbonise. At a global level, the world would still be left with the industrial and the transport sectors, which together account for 46% of the carbon emissions,. This working paper elaborates upon the size and structure of coal-based capacity in India and also touches upon the government’s policies towards decommissioning/retirement of coalbased plants. Further, it delves into the adverse impacts of decommissioning of coal-based plants which lead to the closure of coal mines. The paper also provides an overview of the experience of some select countries that have successfully moved away from coal and also provides a few policy solutions for India as regards decarbonising the electricity sector.