India’s coal imports inched up 1.7 per cent in February, the first rise in eight months, Coal Secretary Anil Swarup said, but suggested it may have been a temporary increase based on deals signed earlier. Imports rose to 16.79 million tonnes from 16.51 million tonnes a year ago, ending a downward trend that began in July and lasted until January. "This is just a marginal increase," Swarup said. "It could be on account of a booking made earlier by an importer."