India’s coal sector continues to play a vital role in fueling the nation’s energy needs while simultaneously driving significant employment growth. As on March 6, 2024, the country’s coal production has reached an impressive 900 MT, with projections indicating a milestone of over 1BT in the current financial year. This surge in production not only contributes to essential infrastructure development but also creates substantial employment opportunities, particularly in coal-rich regions across the country.

The coal-producing Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) of the Government of India, notably Coal India Limited (including subsidiaries) and NLC India Limited, collectively employ a workforce of 369,053 individuals, including 128,236 contractual workers. Additionally, the sector supports approximately 3.1 lakh pensioners, underlining its significant impact on livelihoods and social welfare.

In recent years, Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries have undertaken extensive recruitment drives, adding 59,681 personnel to their workforce from 2014 until February 2024. Similarly, NLC India Limited has recruited 4,265 individuals during the same period, reflecting a commitment to bolstering employment opportunities.

The ongoing financial year has witnessed a further uptick in recruitment efforts, with Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries hiring 5,711 individuals under the Mission Mode Recruitment initiative. Concurrently, NLC India Limited has recruited 661 personnel during the same period, demonstrating a proactive approach towards addressing employment needs.

The surge in coal mining activities, driven by escalating demand, is expected to continue fueling employment growth in the years ahead. Beyond providing direct employment opportunities, mining activities also generate significant indirect employment, contributing to socio-economic development across the nation. As the coal sector continues to expand, it remains committed to fostering inclusive growth and transforming the lives of thousands through sustainable livelihoods.

National Tribal Research Institute (NTRI) successfully organised the Aadi Vyakhyan Series – 5, a 2-day National Conclave on Tribal Women Achievers, with the theme – Empowering Tribal Excellence, in New Delhi on 8^th and 9^th March 2024.

The event, which celebrated remarkable achievements of Tribal Women on International Women’s Day, was attended by around 200 tribal women achievers from the fields of Art, Music, Literature, Sports, Handicrafts, Traditional Knowledge etc. Participants took part from Assam, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha, Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, and Delhi.

Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Smt. R. Jaya delivered the inaugural address and congratulated the tribal women achievers and their efforts. She said that empowering tribal women through entrepreneurship is key to sustainable development. She further highlighted that the dream of Viksit Bharat will be realised by Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas, while stating that the tribal women achievers have shown the path towards ensuring this vision.

Special Director, NTRI, Prof. Nupur Tiwary welcomed the tribal achievers and congratulated them for their efforts. She said that National women conclave is an incredible start to honour and witness the remarkable achievements of tribal women. It will amplify the voices of women and their unsung stories. The strength, resilience and solidarity of the tribal women will inspire others and continue to support and uplift each other through this platform, she added.

Some of the achievers who spoke during the event included Smt. Durgabai Vyam (Padamshr Awardee, Gond Painting), Smt. Raimati Ghiuria (Queen of Millets), Dr. Anju Meena (International Body Building and Power Lifting Athlete National- Gold medalist) and Priyanka (National Women Kabaddi Player).

Smt. Durgabai Vyam shared her journey with the participants. Her talent and journey are the true testament of the rich cultural heritage of the country. Queen of Millets Smt. Raimati Ghiuria, a renowned farmer from Odisha shared her incredible achievements.

The gathering consisted of women entrepreneurs in various fields in addition to women SHGs and artists and artisans

A vibrant performance of Tribal artists from Ladakh showcased their unique dance was a part of showcasing their unique dance form a true celebration of culture and talent. They dedicated a performance for Education Awareness of Women.