TFP Bureau, New Delhi, May 9, 2025: South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) recently organized its inaugural ‘Sneh Milan Mela’ in Surajpur district, Chhattisgarh, under its Bhatgaon Area initiative. The event, which brought together SECL employees, their families, and local villagers, aimed at fostering stronger community relationships and enhancing cooperation for land acquisition, which is critical for the expansion of mining operations.
The festive gathering saw over 600 attendees enjoying cultural performances, including dances, songs, and a puppet show focused on the social message of drug de-addiction. Women employees and local participants also set up food stalls, offering traditional cuisines, which added to the lively atmosphere of the Mela.
Building Trust and Unity for Development
The ‘Sneh Milan Mela’ is part of SECL’s broader strategy to build trust within local communities and ensure the smooth progress of its mining projects. The event aligns with the vision of Union Minister for Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, who had emphasized the importance of grassroots engagement and worker welfare during his recent visit to SECL.
As part of its ongoing rehabilitation efforts, SECL distributed employment letters to 86 local youths who were affected by land acquisition for the Mahamaya Open Cast Project in the Bhatgaon Area. This gesture aims to ensure inclusive growth and create opportunities for the youth in the region.
Empowering the Local Workforce
The employment letters were handed out in a formal ceremony attended by Smt. Lakshmi Rajwade, Minister for Women and Child Development in Chhattisgarh. During her address, Smt. Rajwade commended SECL’s initiatives to empower the affected families and encouraged the youth to actively participate in the region’s growth.
SECL, which operates some of the country’s largest coal mines, is actively working to expand its operations in areas like Gevra, Dipka, and Kusmunda, which together account for more than 70% of the company’s coal production. Facilitating cooperation with local communities is vital for these expansion projects.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth
In FY 2024–25, SECL set a new record by providing employment to 807 individuals in exchange for land acquisition, the highest number in the company’s history. This figure reflects SECL’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive development in its operational areas.
SECL CMD Shri Harish Duhan emphasized, “At SECL, our mission goes beyond mining. We are deeply committed to improving the lives of people in our operational areas through sustained employment and community engagement. Events like Sneh Milan Mela reflect our holistic approach to development, where building trust with communities is as vital as operational efficiency in driving long-term progress.”
