Bilaspur, India|South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day with great patriotic fervor at the Vasant Vihar Ground at its headquarters in Bilaspur. The ceremonial event was led by SECL Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) Shri Harish Duhan, who unfurled the National Flag and took the salute during an impressive parade.
The CMD inspected the ceremonial parade, which was commanded by Senior Security Inspector Shri D.P. Diwakar, with Security Inspector Shri Zakir Hussain, in the presence of SECL Chief of Security Shri V. Dakshinamurthy. The parade featured two platoons from the SECL Security Department, led by Shri Chamru and Shri Prakash Dwivedi.
Adding distinction to the event, student platoons from DAV School participated with commendable discipline and enthusiasm. Platoon leadership included Lance Corporal Aarush Yadav, Sergeant Shriya Singh, Sergeant Jigyasa Thakur, and Corporal Abhijit Bhandari. The Band Platoon was led by Subedar Major Beni Prasad.
The celebration was attended by SECL’s senior leadership, including Director (Technical–Operations) Shri N. Franklin Jayakumar, Director (Human Resources) Shri Biranchi Das, Director (Finance) Shri D. Sunil Kumar, Director (Technical–Projects & Planning) Shri Ramesh Chandra Mohapatra, and Chief Vigilance Officer Shri Himanshu Jain. Representatives from trade unions, the Steering Committee, Safety Committee, Welfare Board, and CISTEA/OBC Council were also present.
The occasion was further honored by the presence of Special Guest Smt. Yashwanti Duhan, mother of the CMD, along with Smt. Shashi Duhan, President of Shraddha Mahila Mandal, and other distinguished guests. A large gathering of officers, employees, students, and citizens attended the event.
Addressing the gathering, CMD Shri Harish Duhan emphasized SECL’s critical role in strengthening India’s energy security. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and social responsibility, while commending employees for their dedication and collective contribution to nation-building.
On the occasion, SECL’s in-house Hindi magazine “Koyla Ratna” was formally released by the dignitaries.
The celebrations also featured vibrant thematic tableaux from various SECL operational areas, highlighting key themes such as green initiatives, innovation, energy security, and community development. Cultural performances by students from DAV Public School, Dreamland School, KPS, and Holy Nursery School added color and patriotic spirit to the program.
Awards were presented by the CMD and the President of Shraddha Mahila Mandal to individuals and teams for excellence in parade performance, bravery, innovation, education, outstanding motherhood, and best tableau presentation. In the tableau competition, Bhatgaon Area won first prize, followed by Hasdeo Area in second place and Gevra Area in third. CWS Gevra Area and Dipka Area received consolation prizes.