Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy on Friday unveiled a set of welfare initiatives for coal workers, including higher compensation and expanded insurance cover, while also announcing measures to promote equality within Coal India.
Speaking at a press conference in Ranchi, Reddy said that from September 17, the ex-gratia payment for coal workers will be raised from ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh. An additional insurance cover of ₹1 crore will also be extended to coal workers, over and above the benefits provided by public sector coal companies. For the first time, contractual coal workers will also receive insurance coverage of ₹40 lakh.
“These steps are a mark of respect for our coal miners who play a vital role in ensuring the nation’s energy security,” the minister said.
In a symbolic move to underline equality within the organisation, he announced that from September 17 — which marks Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and Vishwakarma Puja — all Coal India employees, from underground miners to CMDs, will wear uniforms.
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Reddy highlighted the achievements of the coal ministry, noting that India has crossed the one billion tonnes coal production mark for the first time. On the Prime Minister’s instructions, coal stock levels have also been raised to 25 days, compared to much lower levels in the past. He said that greater reliance on domestic production has helped reduce imports this year, saving precious foreign currency.
Turning to the future, the minister said a National Critical Mineral Mission has been launched to meet rising global demand for strategic minerals. “Lithium exploration has already started in Argentina and similar work is underway in Zambia,” he said, stressing that India must be prepared to secure supplies of critical resources.
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Acknowledging Jharkhand’s importance as a coal hub, Reddy informed that a committee has been set up to resolve royalty dues with the state. On the issue of illegal mining accidents, he said the Centre is in touch with state governments to improve safety in abandoned mine areas where lives are often lost.
Reddy also announced that an integrated control and command centre has been established at Central Coalfields Limited in Ranchi, using AI-driven technology to enhance safety and curb illegal mining. “These initiatives reflect our government’s commitment to the welfare of coal workers while ensuring the country’s long-term energy security,” Reddy said.
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