India’s coal sector remains pivotal in meeting the nation’s energy demands while catalyzing substantial job creation. As of March 6, 2024, the country’s coal production has soared to an impressive 900 million tonnes (MT), with forecasts anticipating a milestone of over 1 billion tonnes in the current fiscal year. This surge not only fuels essential infrastructure development but also opens up ample employment avenues, particularly in coal-rich regions nationwide.

The government-operated coal-producing entities, prominently Coal India Limited (including its subsidiaries) and NLC India Limited, collectively employ a workforce of 369,053 individuals, inclusive of 128,236 contractual workers. Moreover, the sector extends support to approximately 3.1 lakh pensioners, underscoring its significant impact on livelihoods and social welfare.

In recent years, Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries have embarked on extensive recruitment campaigns, adding 59,681 personnel to their ranks from 2014 to February 2024. Similarly, NLC India Limited has welcomed 4,265 new hires during the same period, reflecting a commitment to fortifying employment opportunities.

The ongoing fiscal year has witnessed heightened recruitment endeavors, with Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries enlisting 5,711 individuals through the Mission Mode Recruitment initiative. Concurrently, NLC India Limited has onboarded 661 personnel, showcasing a proactive stance in addressing employment needs.

The escalating demand driving coal mining activities is anticipated to sustain employment expansion in the foreseeable future. Besides creating direct employment opportunities, mining operations yield substantial indirect employment, fostering socio-economic progress nationwide. As the coal sector continues its expansion trajectory, it remains steadfast in fostering inclusive growth and transforming lives through sustainable livelihoods.