Ranchi, September 12: Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy on Friday announced a major boost in welfare measures for Coal India employees. Reddy, who was in the state capital, announced that ex-gratia compensation for mine workers has been raised from ₹15 lakh to ₹25 lakh, while permanent staff will also get an additional insurance cover of ₹1 crore.
He said that contractual workers will be entitled to insurance worth ₹40 lakh. These benefits will come into effect from September 17, the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Alongside this, Reddy said that Coal India will introduce uniforms for its officers and employees and the move is aimed to instill pride and a sense of identity among those working in this sector.
The minister highlighted that India has achieved a record coal production of one billion tonnes, with Jharkhand making a key contribution. He noted that imports worth ₹60,000 crore were cut last year by boosting domestic output.
Addressing the long-standing issue of Jharia, Reddy said a new master plan has been drawn up by a 60-member team formed jointly by the Centre and the Jharkhand government. The plan focuses on rehabilitation of displaced families with provisions for housing, jobs, hospitals, and schools.
Expressing concern over illegal mining accidents, the minister said the government is strengthening safety protocols with modern technology and strict monitoring. “Our priority is not revenue, but meeting the nation’s energy needs and accelerating India’s journey towards becoming a developed economy,” he added.
