Bilaspur, India: South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) marked the 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar with a grand and dignified ceremony at its headquarters on April 14, 2026.
The event was held under the chief patronage of Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan, with distinguished presence from Director (Technical/Operations) N. Franklin Jayakumar, Director (Human Resources) Biranchi Das, Director (Finance) D. Sunil Kumar, and Director (Planning/Projects) Ramesh Chandra Mahapatra. The celebration witnessed active participation from department heads, labor union representatives, SC/ST Association members, SISTA officials, employees, and their families.
The program commenced with the formal inauguration of a newly redeveloped commemorative site dedicated to Dr. Ambedkar. The dignitaries unveiled the site, symbolizing SECL’s commitment to honoring his enduring legacy.
In his keynote address, CMD Harish Duhan described the occasion as a “significant day for the nation,” urging everyone to follow the ideals and vision of Dr. Ambedkar in building a stronger and more inclusive society. He emphasized SECL’s continued efforts toward social empowerment, particularly focusing on women and marginalized communities. He highlighted initiatives such as women empowerment programs, support for meritorious students preparing for NEET examinations, implementation of smart classrooms, and the “Project Dhara Shakti,” aimed at advancing women’s empowerment.
Labor union representatives, including Krishna Suryavanshi, Sudesh Dagor, M.P. Jangde, D.P. Dinkar (MASAVI), Sanjay Sahu, Ajay Singh, Rahul Das, and Suraj Baghel, also addressed the gathering. They paid tribute to Dr. Ambedkar’s life, contributions, and vision for social justice, while appreciating SECL management for organizing the commemorative event.
The ceremony began with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp near the portraits of Gautama Buddha and Dr. Ambedkar. Floral tributes were offered by the chief guest and other dignitaries, followed by collective homage from employees, union leaders, and association members at the statue of Dr. Ambedkar.
Adding a spiritual touch to the event, Disha Khobragade, Nisha Thaware, and their team performed a solemn “Buddha Vandana.” The event proceedings were smoothly conducted by Savita Nirmalkar, Manager (Official Language), who served as the master of ceremonies.
The celebration concluded on a note of unity and reaffirmation of Dr. Ambedkar’s ideals, reflecting SECL’s commitment to inclusive growth and social responsibility.