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Innovative Steps in Coal Mining Sector

On Friday, Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, announced ambitious initiatives aimed at revitalizing the coal mining sector, steering it towards a new direction. Speaking at the Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) headquarters in Ranchi, he inaugurated the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC), a pioneering system introduced in the coal industry. The ICCC will centralize live data from cameras, sensors, drones, and vehicle tracking systems to monitor coal mining activities in real-time.

Additionally, the minister shared details about the launch of a technology-driven monitoring system on X. This platform, located at CCL's Darbhanga House, is designed to enhance safety, transparency, and operational efficiency. It features AI-based video analytics, GIS-enabled displays, customizable dashboards, and a multi-channel alerting system.

Reddy emphasized that this system will play a crucial role in making coal mine operations safer and more transparent. He also announced that starting September 17, coinciding with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday and Labor Day, a uniform dress code will be mandatory for all coal sector employees, including CMDs. This initiative aims to ensure that all coal workers present a unified appearance.

Regarding coal royalties, Reddy mentioned that the central government has formed a committee to investigate the state's claim of ₹1.36 lakh crore in coal royalties and other dues. This committee includes representatives from the state government, the center, and Coal India.

He expressed concern over illegal mining and the associated loss of life and property, stating that better coordination with the state government will be established to address this issue. On the topic of pending pension matters, the minister assured that Coal India would consider the concerns of retired employees, acknowledging that they have received minimal payments thus far.