Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Union Coal and Mining Minister G. Kishan Reddy has announced major welfare measures for regular and contract workers in the coal industry, including enhanced insurance cover of Rs 1 crore and the introduction of a uniform dress code.
Addressing a press conference, Kishan Reddy said that from September 17 — coinciding with Vishwakarma Puja and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday — all regular employees in Coal India mines will get an additional insurance benefit of Rs 1 crore. He said contract workers will also be entitled to a cover of up to Rs 40 lakh. The ex gratia amount for regular employees has also been raised from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
“For the first time since independence, a uniform dress code is being introduced across coal mines to give employees a respectable identity. These uniforms will be provided by Coal India,” Reddy said. He added that the dress code will also apply to Coal India officials.
Highlighting the Modi Government’s achievements in the sector, the Minister said India’s coal production has crossed one billion tonnes for the first time, with Jharkhand making a significant contribution. He noted that in the last financial year, foreign exchange of Rs 60,000 was saved by reducing imports. Reddy further said that the government is focusing not just on coal but also on critical minerals.
