In a significant endorsement of the Government of India’s digital governance agenda, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited under the Ministry of Coal, showcased its flagship digital transformation initiative DigiCOAL at the National Workshop on “Digital Initiatives for Increasing Transparency in Governance” organised by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). The event was held at the SCOPE Convention Centre, New Delhi, on 11 February 2026, bringing together key stakeholders from across government and public sector institutions.
The presentation of DigiCOAL on a national मंच underlines the Ministry of Coal’s sustained focus on transparency, accountability, and technology-driven reforms in the mining sector.
A Reflection of the Ministry of Coal’s Digital Vision
The inclusion of DigiCOAL at the CVC’s national platform reflects the broader policy direction and strategic guidance of the Ministry of Coal, which has consistently emphasised modernisation and digitisation of mining operations. The initiative aligns closely with the Government of India’s larger push for transparent, data-driven, and citizen-centric governance.
DigiCOAL represents a long-term institutional effort to transform traditional mining practices into a technology-enabled, efficiency-oriented, and accountable ecosystem, supporting both operational excellence and regulatory compliance.
Driving Transparency Through Digital Transformation
DigiCOAL is designed as a comprehensive digital ecosystem that strengthens oversight and governance across SECL’s mining operations. By embedding advanced technologies into core processes, the platform enhances real-time monitoring, data analytics, and decision-making capabilities, thereby reducing information gaps and operational opacity.
Key components of the initiative include:
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Real-Time HEMM Fleet Monitoring:
Sensor-based systems track heavy earth moving machinery (HEMM) such as shovels, dumpers, and dozers, capturing data on location, operating hours, and fuel consumption. The system can automatically flag anomalies like unusual fuel drops, excessive idle time, or route deviations, helping curb inefficiencies and improve transparency. -
Video Analytics and Connected Worker Systems:
These tools strengthen safety compliance, improve operational control, and enhance emergency response mechanisms, contributing to safer and more accountable mining practices. -
Drone-Based Surveillance:
Drones are used for mine surveys, monitoring haul roads and slopes, identifying encroachments, and assessing drainage systems—especially during the monsoon season. This supports preventive monitoring and strengthens regulatory compliance. -
Data-Driven Mine Planning:
Advanced analytics, along with optimised drilling and blasting systems, have made production processes more scientific, efficient, and measurable, improving both productivity and resource utilisation. -
Integrated Digital Platforms:
Digital land records, online training modules, spare management systems, and a centralised digital war room together form a unified and tamper-proof digital governance framework, enhancing institutional accountability.
A Model for Technology-Led Governance in Mining
The showcasing of DigiCOAL at a national workshop dedicated to transparency in governance highlights how policy vision at the ministerial level and technology adoption at the operational level can work together to reshape a critical sector like coal mining. The initiative demonstrates how digital tools can simultaneously support efficiency, compliance, safety, and transparency.
As India seeks to meet its growing energy needs responsibly, initiatives like DigiCOAL signal a shift toward a future-ready, accountable, and digitally empowered mining ecosystem—one that balances productivity with governance and public trust.
Conclusion
SECL’s DigiCOAL stands as a strong example of how digital transformation can translate policy intent into on-ground impact. Its recognition at the CVC’s national workshop not only validates SECL’s efforts but also reinforces the coal sector’s commitment to transparent, efficient, and technology-driven governance. Going forward, such initiatives are likely to play a central role in shaping a more modern, accountable, and resilient mining sector in India.
The presentation of DigiCOAL on a national मंच underlines the Ministry of Coal’s sustained focus on transparency, accountability, and technology-driven reforms in the mining sector.
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Source: PIB
