Coal India Enhances Workers' Ex Gratia to Rs 25 Lakh and Introduces Employee Uniforms

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that Coal India will increase workers' ex gratia to Rs 25 lakh from Rs 15 lakh and introduce uniforms for employees starting September 17. The company will also provide additional insurance coverage for employees and contractual workers.

Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy announced that Coal India Ltd (CIL) will increase the ex gratia payment for workers in case of mine accidents from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 25 lakh. This change will take effect on September 17, coinciding with Vishwakarma Diwas and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday. Additionally, CIL will provide Rs 1 crore accidental insurance for employees and Rs 40 lakh for contractual workers.

Coal India is also set to introduce uniforms for all employees, including the chairman and managing director, starting September 17. This initiative aims to foster a sense of discipline and unity among the workforce. The decision marks the first time since India's Independence that such a measure has been implemented.

Focus on Domestic Production

Reddy emphasised India's commitment to reducing coal imports, highlighting a Rs 60,000 crore saving from cutting dry-fuel imports last year. Despite technical challenges, some companies, especially in steel production, continue importing coal. The government is committed to further reforms in the coal sector to enhance business transparency and ease block auctions.

The minister also mentioned the Rs 32,000 crore National Critical Mineral Mission aimed at exploring critical minerals. Public and private sectors are encouraged to participate, with exploration efforts underway in Argentina and Zambia. In Argentina, India secured affiliation for five lithium blocks through a government-to-government agreement.

Energy Production and Safety

India's energy production is heavily reliant on coal, accounting for 74% of the total. With increasing power demand, the government is working to ensure a steady supply by boosting thermal power production while promoting green energy development. Stakeholders are encouraged to invest in solar power generation.

Safety and security of coal mine workers remain a priority. CIL Chairman PM Prasad stated that the company aims to produce 875 million tonnes of coal this fiscal year, up from last year's 781 million tonnes. Monsoon conditions have temporarily reduced production by 11 million tonnes, but efforts will resume post-monsoon.

Resolving Pending Issues

Regarding Jharkhand's claim of Rs 1.36 lakh crore pending coal dues, Reddy said the ministry prioritises dialogue over profit-making. A committee comprising Coal India and state government officers has been formed to address this issue, having held three meetings so far.

CIL is focusing on mine closure activities, identifying 143 mined areas for this purpose. Nine areas are currently undergoing closure activities, with plans to complete them soon. Additionally, a comprehensive master plan for Jharia has been proposed by the central government in collaboration with the state government.

A special officer and a team of 60 officers will be appointed for this project, with the state government responsible for appointing a CEO. Once appointed, swift execution of the plan is expected.

With inputs from PTI