New Delhi : South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), one of India’s leading coal-producing companies, has earned national recognition for its innovative and impactful work in water conservation. The company was honored with the “Integrated Industrial Water Management & Stewardship Award” at the prestigious Water Digest Awards 2026.
The award ceremony took place on March 23 in New Delhi, where the honor was presented by Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Minister of State for the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
SECL’s top leadership received the award, including Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan and Director (Technical/Planning & Projects) Ramesh Chandra Mahapatra, recognizing the company’s leadership in sustainable industrial practices.
Transforming Mine Water into a Community Resource
The recognition highlights SECL’s Mine Water Utilization initiative, a forward-thinking program designed to repurpose water discharged from mining operations. Instead of letting this water go to waste, SECL has implemented systems to channel, treat, and distribute it for community use.
This initiative has significantly benefited nearby rural areas by:
- Improving access to water in water-scarce regions
- Supporting irrigation needs for local farmers
- Enabling multiple cropping cycles annually
- Strengthening rural livelihoods
By turning an industrial byproduct into a valuable resource, SECL has demonstrated how mining operations can coexist with environmental stewardship and community development.
Leadership Perspective
Speaking on the achievement, CMD Harish Duhan emphasized that water conservation remains a core priority for the company. He noted that SECL is committed to responsible mining practices and sees efficient water management as a critical component of sustainability.
He added that the mine water initiative not only ensures optimal use of natural resources but also directly improves the quality of life for surrounding communities, particularly farmers who now have more reliable irrigation access.
A Model for Sustainable Mining
SECL’s efforts are increasingly being seen as a replicable model for the mining industry, where environmental challenges can be transformed into opportunities for social impact. The initiative aligns with India’s broader goals of water conservation and sustainable resource management.
With this national recognition, SECL continues to strengthen its reputation as a company that balances industrial growth with environmental responsibility and community welfare.