SECL sets record in FY 2025-26 with growth in coal production, offtake

South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) emerged as the only CIL subsidiary with positive growth across coal production, offtake, and overburden removal in FY 2025-26, recording 176.2 MT production and setting new operational benchmarks.

South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL) has achieved a significant milestone in FY 2025-26, emerging as the only subsidiary of Coal India Limited to register positive growth across all three key performance parameters--coal production, offtake and overburden removal (OBR). SECL recorded coal production of 176.2 million tonnes, reflecting a growth of 5.26% (8.8 MT) over the previous year. Coal offtake stood at 178.6 million tonnes, registering a growth of 4.6% (7.9 MT). Rail despatch witnessed a 16% increase, while despatch through First Mile Connectivity (FMC) grew by 28%, according to a release.

Record Performance in FY 2025-26

With 364.3 million cubic metres of overburden removal, SECL achieved its highest-ever OBR, strengthening future coal readiness. In addition, the company achieved a landmark in land acquisition with 358 hectares acquired, marking a remarkable 867% growth over the previous year.

Environmental Stewardship and Project Milestones

SECL continued its strong focus on environmental stewardship. During the year, 13.96 lakh saplings were planted, including Miyawaki-based dense plantation initiatives. The company commissioned 43.78 MW of solar capacity, leading to a reduction of approximately 41,200 tonnes of CO₂ emissions. Further, 408 lakh kilolitres of mine water was utilised, enabling irrigation across more than 3,800 hectares of land.

Through environmental clearances, SECL secured 2.16 MTY incremental capacity, while Terms of Reference approvals paved the way for 39.02 MTY future capacity addition. Key project approvals include Durgapur Opencast Project (10 MTY) and Amritdhara Underground Project. Coal grade confirmation improved significantly from 68% to 75%.

Operational and Corporate Achievements

The company's digital initiative 'DigiCOAL' strengthened real-time monitoring and transparency, earning recognition at the national level by the Central Vigilance Commission. SECL provided employment to 511 dependents, marking its highest-ever figure with a 24% growth. Additionally, 754 Project Affected Persons (PAPs) were provided employment, along with the recruitment of 42 Mining Sirdars. Procurement worth ₹25,799 crore was undertaken through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), achieving record performance. SECL secured the top position for the third consecutive year in Special Campaign 5.0, the release noted.

Technological and Logistical Enhancements

SECL became the first coal PSU in India to implement paste fill technology, marking a major step towards safer and sustainable underground mining. Average loading reached 53.2 rakes per day, strengthening coal evacuation efficiency. Rail corridor projects further enhanced the company's logistics and evacuation network.

Future Growth and Diversification

SECL made notable progress in diversification areas, including coal gasification, ultra-supercritical thermal power, coal washery development, critical minerals exploration, rare earth extraction and hydro-based energy solutions--aligning with future energy requirements.

Commitment to Society and Inclusion

In FY 2025-26, CSR projects worth ₹365.39 crore were approved across key sectors such as healthcare, education, environment and livelihoods, reaffirming SECL's commitment beyond mining. SECL set new benchmarks in gender inclusion by establishing the first all-women dispensary and all-women central store unit in the coal industry, as per the release.

Leadership on SECL's Success

On achieving such a feat, SECL Chairman-cum-Managing Director Harish Duhan said, "This achievement of South Eastern Coalfields Limited in FY 2025-26 is the result of the dedication, hard work and team spirit of each and every employee. Despite numerous operational and geographical challenges, our workforce has consistently delivered, ensuring notable growth in production, offtake and overburden removal. This success is not merely about numbers, but a reflection of our collective commitment towards the nation's energy security. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire SECL family for their outstanding contribution and am confident that with the same spirit and dedication, we will continue to scale new heights in the future." (ANI)

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