Raipur/Baikunthpur, July 1, 2025 — Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey, concluded a two-day official visit to South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL Mines), covering its major operational sites including Dipka, Chirimiri, and Churcha. The visit underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable coal mining, safety innovation, and the crucial role of coal in realizing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Cutting-Edge Technology for Safer, Smarter Mining
On July 1, the Minister virtually inaugurated a low-height Continuous Miner machine at the NCPH underground mine in SECL’s Chirimiri Area. This state-of-the-art mining equipment is designed to increase underground coal production while enhancing worker safety and operational efficiency.
Reaffirming coal’s centrality to India’s self-reliance mission, Shri Dubey stated:
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, coal shortages are a thing of the past. With advanced technologies like the Continuous Miner, our target is to produce 100 million tonnes from underground mines by 2030.”
He commended SECL for embracing innovation and modern mining tools to promote safe, sustainable extraction of coal.
Strengthening Safety and Inclusivity
During his visit to the Churcha underground mine in the Baikunthpur Area, the Minister inaugurated a Main Mechanical Ventilator (MMV) — a critical safety infrastructure designed to provide clean and fresh airflow to underground workers. He also inaugurated bio-toilets to support the inclusion and welfare of women employees in the mining workforce.
In a strong gesture toward environmental responsibility, Shri Dubey planted a tree under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, symbolizing coal sector’s growing commitment to ecological sustainability.
Employee Recognition and Social Outreach in SECL Mines
The Minister took time to felicitate SECL employees, including contractual workers and women staff, for their exceptional service and dedication. He interacted with workers at their camps to personally assess their welfare conditions, highlighting the importance of inclusive growth and labor dignity in the coal sector.
At SECL’s Dipka Area, the Minister:
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Participated in a plantation drive at Pragati House
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Laid the foundation stone for a new entrance gate and security complex
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Reviewed mine performance and productivity at the Dipka View Point
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Commended SECL’s impactful CSR initiatives, including the “SECL Ki Dhadkan” program that funds life-saving heart surgeries for children
Government-Industry Synergy for Faster Progress
On the first day of his tour (June 30), Shri Dubey paid a courtesy visit to Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai in Raipur. The two leaders held key discussions to expedite land acquisition and rehabilitation processes critical to coal mining expansion and infrastructure development in the state.
Conclusion: A Vision for Coal-Led Development
Minister Satish Chandra Dubey’s visit to SECL highlighted a broader vision — that of making coal mining not just productive and self-reliant, but also inclusive, modern, and sustainable. With renewed emphasis on technology, safety, environmental protection, and social responsibility, SECL continues to be a key player in India’s energy ecosystem and its journey towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
For more details, check press release on PIB website.
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