A high-level delegation comprising officials from the Ministry of Coal and prominent national media houses undertook a comprehensive three-day visit to various coalfields of Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) from June 20 to 22, 2025. The objective of the visit was to gain firsthand insight into CCL’s contributions to the nation’s energy security, sustainable mining practices, and extensive corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
Their itinerary included visits to CSR centres, environmentally progressive mining projects, and community empowerment programs.
Showcasing CSR Success: “CCL Ke Lal” and “CCL Ki Ladli”
One of the major highlights of the visit was the inspection of CCL’s flagship CSR programs – CCL Ke Lal and CCL Ki Ladli. These initiatives provide free coaching, education, and residential support to underprivileged yet talented students from Jharkhand. Journalists interacted directly with students and alumni, many of whom have secured admissions in premier institutes such as IITs, NITs, IIMs, IIITs, and BIT Mesra.
Inspiring stories included that of Divyanshu Kumar Mishra, a teacher’s son from Ramgarh who completed B.Tech in Mining Engineering from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and now serves as a Mining Engineer in CCL’s Kujju Area. Another success story was Matul Baghel, son of a CCL excavation helper, who pursued B.Tech from NIT Raipur and joined CCL as an Assistant Manager in 2021.
Technological Advancements and Environmental Commitment
The delegation also visited Barka Sayal and North Urimari areas, where they witnessed state-of-the-art technologies like the Coal Handling Plant (CHP) and First Mile Connectivity (FMC) projects in operation. These technologies ensure efficient, dust-free coal loading, reducing environmental impact significantly. Mr. Ajay Singh, GM of Barka Sayal Area, briefed the delegation on CCL’s ongoing sustainability initiatives.
At North Urimari, the team observed CCL’s fish farming projects that have empowered local villagers with a stable source of income. Beneficiaries shared how this initiative transformed their economic condition.
Underground Mining and Women Empowerment
On the second day, the delegation explored the Churi Underground Mine in the NK Area and interacted with women engineers and workers. They met Akanksha Kumari, Coal India’s first woman mining engineer, and appreciated CCL’s efforts in promoting gender diversity in the mining sector. Presently, four women mining engineers are working at CCL – a notable milestone in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Senior Leadership Interaction and Strategic Insights
At the CCL headquarters, media representatives engaged in a comprehensive discussion with CMD Nilendu Kumar Singh, Director (Finance) Pawan Mishra, and Director (HR) Harsh Nath Mishra. The leadership shared future plans, including the opening of two new coal mines in FY 2025-26, which will significantly boost production. The session covered wide-ranging topics including women empowerment, environmental sustainability, and CSR.
Community Initiatives and Animal Welfare
The final day included a visit to the Jharkhand State Sports Promotion Society (JSSPS) at Khelgaon, where journalists met athletes, including national and international level players, being trained under CCL’s sports promotion initiatives.
In the field of women’s empowerment, the delegation visited skill development centres, including sewing training programs, where beneficiaries shared transformative life stories. The “Rakshak” initiative, under which stray and sick dogs are rescued, treated, and rehabilitated, also drew praise. Former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi had earlier lauded this initiative on social media, urging replication by other institutions.
Technical Advancements at CMPDI
The delegation concluded their visit at CMPDI, where they toured the NACCER, 5G Testing Laboratory, and Earth Science Museum. CMD CMPDI, Manoj Kumar, presented the technical edge and global investment initiatives being pursued.
Conclusion: Commitment to Inclusive, Sustainable Growth
Under the visionary leadership of CMD Nilendu Kumar Singh, CCL is emerging as a model PSU – combining technological innovation with a deep sense of social responsibility. Whether through educational empowerment, environmental care, gender inclusion, or community development, CCL’s multifaceted efforts are strengthening both regional welfare and national progress.
