Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy recently unveiled a set of welfare initiatives for Coal India employees, including a significant increase in mine accident compensation and the introduction of new insurance coverage. The announcements were made during a press conference in Ranchi, where he was joined by Coal India Chairman and MD, P.M. Prasad.
Starting September 17, which marks Vishwakarma Diwas and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday, Coal India will raise the ex gratia payment for mine accident fatalities to Rs 25 lakh, up from Rs 15 lakh. The company will also provide accidental insurance coverage of Rs 1 crore for its employees and Rs 40 lakh for contractual workers, further strengthening financial protection for those working in high-risk mining environments.
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy stated that the move acknowledges the hazards of mining and seeks to offer enhanced financial security to workers’ families. Reddy reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cutting reliance on imported coal, noting that this approach helped India save ₹60,000 crore last year.
He further stated that the government is rolling out a ₹32,000 crore National Critical Mineral Mission to enhance exploration and secure resources essential for the energy transition. Initiatives have already begun in countries like Argentina and Zambia, with both public and private sector participation encouraged.
