Journalists gain first-hand insights into mining operations, energy security and sustainable development initiatives
Bilaspur : A delegation of journalists and media representatives from Bhubaneswar and Uttarakhand visited South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) to gain first-hand insights into the company’s mining operations, contribution to India’s energy security and initiatives focused on sustainable and responsible mining.
The media visit was organised in collaboration with the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Raipur, Bhubaneswar and Uttarakhand, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India.
SECL briefs media on mining and energy security
During an interaction programme at the SECL headquarters in Bilaspur, media representatives were briefed about the company’s operations and its role in meeting India’s growing energy requirements.
Discussions covered several key areas, including environmental protection, mine safety, technological innovation, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), community and employee welfare, diversification and women’s empowerment.
The interaction was attended by Biranchi Das, Director (Human Resources); Ramesh Chandra Mahapatra, Director (Technical–Operations); and Nripendra Nath, Director (Technical–Planning & Projects), Additional Charge, SECL, along with other senior company officials.
SECL management reiterated the company’s commitment to meeting the country’s energy requirements while maintaining its responsibility towards environmental protection and the welfare of communities associated with its mining operations.
The visiting journalists were also briefed about SECL’s efforts towards safe, technology-enabled and sustainable mining, including measures aimed at improving operational safety and environmental management.
Media delegation visits Gevra mining area
Prior to the interaction at the headquarters, the media delegation undertook a field visit to the Gevra Area.
During the visit, the journalists observed mining operations first-hand at Gevra, one of the world’s largest coal mines, and received information about coal extraction and associated mining activities.
The delegation also observed various environmental and sustainable development initiatives being undertaken in the mining area. These included the Miyawaki plantation initiative, which is part of the efforts to strengthen green cover and promote environmental restoration around mining operations.
Interaction and experience-sharing session
The visit concluded with a question-and-answer and experience-sharing session. Media representatives interacted with SECL officials on a range of subjects related to mining, energy security, mine safety, technology, environmental protection and community development.
The visit provided journalists from Bhubaneswar and Uttarakhand with an opportunity to understand SECL’s mining operations and its approach towards balancing coal production and energy security with environmental responsibility, safety and sustainable community development.



