Production targets and operational priorities
Chairing the review, the Minister stressed that achieving annual coal production targets remains essential in view of growing domestic demand. “Strengthening ongoing mining operations and operationalising new projects are vital for making India self-reliant in the coal sector,” he said, assuring full support from the Ministry of Coal.
WCL’s Chairman-cum-Managing Director, Shri J. P. Dwivedi, presented an overview of the company’s production, dispatches and new initiatives. Officials said WCL is on track to meet its annual targets, supported by area-wise planning, welfare measures and technological upgrades that aim to improve productivity and safety across mines.
‘SHASTRA’: A first for PSUs
A highlight of the visit was the inauguration of “SHASTRA” (Small Hybrid Arms Simulator Training Academy), the first simulator-based weapons training centre established within a Public Sector Undertaking. Located at the Safety Training Centre in Indora, SHASTRA is designed to boost the operational readiness of security personnel deployed across WCL’s active areas.
The simulator uses hybrid training modules to replicate real-world scenarios, allowing trainees to practice weapons handling and response protocols in a controlled environment. The Minister reviewed the training curriculum and weapons modules, urging security staff to remain vigilant and professional in their duties.
Technology, welfare and surveillance
The Integrated Command and Control Centre showcased WCL’s focus on digital monitoring. The ICCC consolidates live feeds, access control logs and safety alerts from multiple sites, enabling faster incident response and improved mine security. The E-vehicle charging station aligns with the PSU’s broader sustainability goals and supports on-site mobility for staff and emergency services.
WCL’s Amrit Pharmacy and other welfare interventions reflect the company’s commitment to employee health and local community wellbeing. WCL officials highlighted ongoing CSR programmes and skill-development drives that run alongside core mining operations.
Stakeholders and next steps
The review meeting included senior Ministry officials and WCL leadership, with area general managers and department heads joining the deliberations. The presence of technical, finance and human-resources directors underscored the multi-disciplinary effort needed to meet production and safety targets.
Officials said the Ministry will continue to support WCL with policy backing and facilitation for project clearances. Improved surveillance, staff training through SHASTRA, and investments in infrastructure are expected to help WCL sustain output while enhancing worker safety and environmental compliance.
Why this matters
Western Coalfields Limited is a key supplier in India’s coal ecosystem. As the nation balances energy security with sustainability goals, efficient coal production and safe mining practices remain critical. The initiatives inaugurated by MoS Dubey from digital surveillance to simulator-based training aim to modernise operations while strengthening the PSU’s capacity to meet rising demand.
