Nagpur: Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Atmadeepam Society, Nagpur, to implement Project Pragati – Digital Literacy & Livelihood Empowerment Programme under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The agreement, signed on July 29, 2026, aims to empower visually impaired individuals and other persons with disabilities by providing certified digital skills training to improve their employment prospects.
The initiative reflects WCL’s continued commitment to inclusive development and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill development.
WCL Launches Project Pragati Under CSR Initiative
As part of Project Pragati – Digital Literacy & Livelihood Empowerment Programme, WCL will provide certified digital training to 90 visually impaired and other persons with disabilities from Nagpur.
The programme has been designed to improve digital literacy and enhance employability by equipping participants with practical computer skills needed in today’s job market.
The initiative is expected to help beneficiaries secure better career opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
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MoU Signed in Presence of Senior Officials
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in the presence of Mr. Bikram Ghosh, Director (Finance & HR), WCL.
The agreement was formally signed by:
- Mr. Lalit Prakash Tirkey, General Manager (CSR), WCL.
- Ms. Jigyasa Kubde Chawaldhal, Founder and Authorised Representative, Atmadeepam Society.
The partnership marks another important milestone in WCL’s CSR efforts aimed at promoting social inclusion and economic empowerment.
Certified Digital Training for Persons with Disabilities
Under the programme, participants will receive recognised certification through:
- MS-CIT (Maharashtra State Certificate in Information Technology).
- GCC-TBC (Government Certificate in Computer Typing Basic Course).
The training will focus on:
- Digital literacy.
- Computer operations.
- Typing skills.
- Practical workplace computer applications.
These courses are intended to build job-ready skills that are increasingly required across multiple industries.
Screen-Reader Technology to Ensure Inclusive Learning
A key feature of the programme is the use of modern screen-reader technology, enabling visually impaired participants to learn independently and effectively.
The assistive technology will make digital education more accessible and help learners confidently use computers for education, communication and employment.
By integrating accessible technology into training, the programme aims to remove barriers that often prevent persons with disabilities from acquiring digital skills.
Initiative Aims to Improve Employment Opportunities
The primary objective of Project Pragati is to create meaningful livelihood opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The programme seeks to prepare participants for employment in:
- Government departments.
- Banking institutions.
- Private sector organisations.
- Other digitally enabled workplaces.
By strengthening digital competencies, WCL aims to improve participants’ long-term employability and financial independence.
Promoting Inclusive Growth Through CSR
WCL said the initiative reflects its broader commitment to inclusive growth beyond its core mining operations.
Many persons with disabilities continue to face challenges in accessing quality skill development programmes and employment opportunities. Through certified training supported by assistive technologies, Project Pragati aims to bridge this gap and create sustainable pathways to employment.
The initiative is also expected to positively impact the families of beneficiaries by improving their income-generating potential and enhancing social inclusion.
About Western Coalfields Limited (WCL)
Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) is a Miniratna public sector undertaking and a subsidiary of Coal India Limited under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India. Headquartered in Nagpur, Maharashtra, WCL operates coal mines across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh and plays a key role in meeting India’s energy needs. Along with its mining operations, the company actively implements Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focused on education, healthcare, skill development, environmental sustainability and community welfare.
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