TFP Bureau, New Delhi, September 16, 2025: In a significant step to strengthen social security and workplace dignity in the coal sector, Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy today launched a new uniform, a comprehensive Corporate Salary Package, and enhanced ex-gratia benefits for Coal India employees. These measures, developed under the guidance of the Ministry of Coal, mark a holistic approach to improving the identity, safety, and financial well-being of over 2.5 lakh workers across the organization.
Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister said the new initiatives are fully aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Workers First” and “Workers’ Welfare,” which places the dignity and well-being of employees at the centre of national development. He emphasized that coal workers form the backbone of India’s energy security and deserve recognition, protection and respect equal to the magnitude of their contribution.
A major announcement under the “We Care” initiative was the increase in ex-gratia compensation for mine accident fatalities, which has been raised from ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh. The revised compensation will be provided directly to the families of both regular and contract employees, ensuring timely and transparent support. While Coal India continues to pursue its mission of “Zero Harm” in mining operations, the enhanced ex-gratia reflects the company’s commitment to stand with families during difficult times and provide a safety net that reduces the impact of unforeseen tragedies.
The launch of the Corporate Salary Package, unveiled with the tagline “Suraksha Har Karmchaari Ki – United in Security, Empowered for the Future,” is another milestone in employee welfare. Through tie-ups with ten leading public sector banks and the Chhattisgarh State Gramin Bank, the package provides ₹1 crore accident insurance coverage for regular employees and ₹40 lakh for contract workers. More than 2.15 lakh regular staff and 44,000 contract workers have already been enrolled in the scheme, with no premium contribution required from employees. The package ensures modern banking facilities, secure financial access, and long-term economic protection for the entire workforce, making it a genuine welfare-driven initiative.
Alongside financial security, Coal India also introduced a new uniform for employees across all levels, from miners working underground and in open-cast sites to staff in administrative and project offices. The uniform is intended to promote a shared sense of identity, professionalism and pride while reinforcing a culture of safety. Officials noted that the introduction of a uniform across such a vast workforce reflects Coal India’s vision of building unity and dignity among its employees, regardless of role or location.
Together, these initiatives form a comprehensive welfare model that combines financial protection, strengthened social security and a cohesive identity. They represent a forward-looking approach to workforce management and are expected to improve morale, enhance productivity and create a more inclusive work environment.
Shri G. Kishan Reddy remarked that Coal India’s workforce is not only vital for the nation’s energy needs but also central to India’s development story. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to ensure that the sacrifices and hard work of coal workers are recognized with dignity, compassion and unwavering support.
With these measures, Coal India has taken a decisive step towards setting new standards in employee welfare, ensuring that India’s energy sector is powered not only by coal but by the confidence, security and pride of those who mine it.
