In a heartfelt effort to strengthen bonds with local communities, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) hosted its first-ever ‘Sneh Milan Mela’ in the Surajpur district of Chhattisgarh. Held in the Bhatgaon Area, the event marked a significant step toward nurturing mutual trust and understanding between the company and the people living near its mining operations.
The gathering, filled with warmth and joy, saw participation from over 600 people, including SECL employees, their families, and villagers from nearby areas. Traditional dances, music, and even a puppet show carrying a social message on drug de-addiction added to the vibrant atmosphere. Food stalls set up by women employees and local participants served regional delicacies, turning the day into a celebration of culture, unity, and shared aspirations.
Beyond the festivities, the event carried deep significance. SECL used this occasion to distribute employment letters to 86 local youths whose families had been affected by land acquisition for the Mahamaya Open Cast Project. This gesture was a sincere attempt to not just compensate but empower, helping families rebuild their lives with dignity. Present at the event was Smt. Lakshmi Rajwade, Minister for Women and Child Development, Government of Chhattisgarh, who lauded SECL’s commitment to supporting affected families and encouraged the youth to actively participate in shaping the region’s development.
The Mela also echoed the vision of Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, who recently interacted with SECL workers and emphasized grassroots connection and worker welfare as central to inclusive growth.
SECL, one of Coal India’s major subsidiaries, is expanding its operations through flagship projects like Gevra, Dipka, and Kusmunda, which alone account for over 70% of its total coal output. The company recognizes that successful development hinges not just on operational output but also on the strength of its relationships with local communities.
With a record 807 jobs offered in FY 2024–25 as part of its land acquisition compensation efforts, SECL is setting an example of how growth can be both ambitious and compassionate. Chairman and Managing Director Shri Harish Duhan emphasized that SECL’s mission extends well beyond coal mining — it is about building lives, ensuring community welfare, and fostering a future where progress is inclusive and harmonious.
Through initiatives like the Sneh Milan Mela, SECL continues to show that development is most meaningful when it is shared.
