Bilaspur, India |South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) marked Miners’ Day 2026 with a large-scale and ceremonial event at its headquarters auditorium in Bilaspur on May 1, recognizing the invaluable contribution of coal workers to the nation’s energy security.
The event was held under the chief patronage of Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan, who was joined by Director (Technical Operations) N. Franklin Jayakumar, Director (Human Resources) Biranchi Das, Director (Finance) D. Sunil Kumar, Chief Vigilance Officer Himanshu Jain, and Director (Technical – Planning & Projects) Ramesh Chandra Mahapatra. Former Director (HR) R. S. Singh and several representatives from labor unions, welfare boards, safety committees, and women’s organizations were also present, along with senior officials and employees.
Ceremonial Tribute and Opening
The program began with flag hoisting by CMD Harish Duhan, followed by the playing of the corporate anthem of Coal India Limited. The dignitaries formally inaugurated the event with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, after which “Vande Mataram” was played.
A two-minute silence was observed in honor of martyrs and workers who lost their lives in the line of duty. Floral tributes were also paid earlier at the martyrs’ memorial, as well as at statues of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and miners within the headquarters premises.
“Workers Are the Nation’s Energy Guardians”
In his keynote address, Harish Duhan extended greetings on Miners’ Day and delivered a powerful message emphasizing the central role of workers in nation-building.
He stated, “Our workers are the energy guardians of the nation. This day is not merely ceremonial—it is a day to salute the hands that bring energy from beneath the earth and illuminate the country.”
Duhan highlighted that SECL’s identity is not defined by machines, mines, or production statistics, but by its people—miners, supervisors, contract workers, women employees, and the families supporting them.
He further noted that while the nation sleeps, miners continue working underground, ensuring uninterrupted energy supply. “Every achievement of SECL is built on the hard work of a worker, the sacrifice of a family, and the discipline of a team,” he added.
Awards and Recognitions
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards across multiple categories recognizing excellence in performance, safety, innovation, and welfare.
Area Performance Awards:
- Group A: First – Dipka Area; Second – Raigarh Area; Third – Kusmunda Area
- Group B: First – Jamuna Kotma Area; Second – Bhatgaon Area; Third – Korba Area
- Group C: First – Hasdeo Area; Second – Chirimiri Area; Third – Baikunthpur Area
Mine-Level Performance (Opencast and Underground):
Top-performing mines across Group A, B, and C categories were honored, including Jagannathpur OC, Dipka OC, Jamuna OC, Kurja UG, Katkona UG, and others.
Individual Excellence Awards:
Outstanding operators and workers were recognized in categories such as Best SDL Operator, LHD Operator, Driller, UDM Operator, Underground Worker, Shovel Operator, Dumper Operator, Dozer Operator, and Drill Operator.
Special Awards:
- CSR Award – SECL HQ Bilaspur (First)
- Quality of Life, Environment Management, Safety Excellence, HRD, Public Relations, Rajbhasha, Industrial Relations, and Innovation Awards were also presented to various areas and departments.
- Women’s committees and welfare organizations were honored for their contributions to community and workforce well-being.
In a special moment, CMD Harish Duhan himself was honored with the “Best Miner Award” by the Board of Directors in recognition of his leadership.
Messages from Leadership and Unions
Former Director (HR) R. S. Singh expressed gratitude for being invited and praised SECL’s leadership and workforce, expressing confidence that the company would continue its legacy of excellence.
Labor union leaders also addressed the gathering, reflecting on the history of Workers’ Day and reaffirming their support for the company’s growth. They appreciated SECL management’s efforts toward worker welfare and industrial harmony.
Cultural and Formal Proceedings
The event included the reading of a message from India’s Union Coal Minister, presented by Public Relations Officer Dr. Sanish Chandra. A special commemorative tableau dedicated to miners was also unveiled during the ceremony.
The program was conducted by Varun Sharma (Manager, HR) and Mitali Tiwari (Chief Manager, E&M), while the vote of thanks was delivered by General Manager (HR – Manpower) S. Parida.
The grand celebration concluded with a renewed commitment from SECL leadership and employees to uphold the dignity, safety, and welfare of miners—acknowledging them as the backbone of India’s energy sector.
