National Media Delegation Visits SECL to Explore Coal, Green Initiatives & CSR

Bilaspur, February 20, 2026: A four-day National Media Press Tour is being organized at South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) from 20th to 23rd February 2026 under the aegis of the Ministry of Coal, Government of India. The delegation arrived in Bilaspur today and interacted with SECL’s senior management at the company headquarters.

Shri Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD), SECL, addressed the gathering, emphasizing coal’s continued significance in India’s energy landscape. He highlighted that coal remains the backbone of the country’s electricity generation, with over 70% of India’s power output still coal-based. SECL currently contributes nearly 20% of India’s total coal production, playing a pivotal role in national energy security.

Key Highlights from SECL’s Operations and Initiatives

Indigenous Mining Machinery & Make in India Alignment:
SECL is actively deploying indigenous equipment across its mines. The introduction of Continuous Miners in underground operations enables blast-free coal extraction, improving both safety and productivity. Surface miners in opencast operations promote environmentally responsible mining practices.
First Mile Connectivity (FMC) Projects:
FMC initiatives ensure mechanized and eco-friendly coal evacuation, reducing road transport and associated emissions.
Renewable Energy Goals:
SECL plans to develop 700 MW of solar power capacity by 2028–29, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable energy alongside conventional coal production.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):
Through flagship programs such as SECL Ki Dhadkan and SECL Ke Sushrut, the company is strengthening healthcare and education in coalfield regions of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Initiatives include life-saving treatments for children with congenital heart defects, support for medical aspirants, and skill development programs across local communities.

Delegation and Media Participation

The Ministry of Coal delegation included:

Shri Robin Gangte, Deputy Secretary
Shri Neelesh Kumar Joshi, APS to the Union Minister of Coal & Mines
Shri Shuhaib T, Chief of Media & Communications
Shri Gourav Gupta and Ms. Archana Garima, Media Team

Senior journalists from DD News, The Hindu, Zee Business, Business Today, V6 News, Andhra Jyothi, and NTV participated in the interactions.

From SECL, Shri N. Franklin Jayakumar, Director (Technical/Operations), Shri Himanshu Jain, Chief Vigilance Officer, and senior departmental heads joined CMD Shri Harish Duhan during the session.

Objective of the Press Tour

The press tour provides the media delegation with first-hand exposure to SECL’s:

Mining operations and safety practices
Green initiatives and renewable energy projects
First-mile connectivity infrastructure
CSR interventions and community development programs

SECL reaffirmed its commitment to transparent operations, responsible mining, environmental stewardship, and inclusive development, continuing its mission to power India’s progress.