Bhubaneswar: The second edition of the Coal India HR/IR Conclave has officially begun in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, with a strong focus on enhancing employee welfare and advancing human resources practices across the industry.
The two-day conclave, hosted by Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL), Coal India’s subsidiary, has brought together HR leaders from across the organization’s subsidiaries as well as distinguished professionals from both industry and academia. Over 150 delegates are participating in the event, which aims to foster insightful discussions on various aspects of Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations.
In his inaugural address, Mr P.M. Prasad, Chairman of Coal India, emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to the health, welfare, and safety of its workforce. He reiterated that the well-being of Coal India employees remains a top priority and highlighted the company’s robust commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). He called upon HR leaders to align their strategies with industry best practices to further improve both employee welfare and the well-being of the communities Coal India serves.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Vinay Ranjan, Director (HR), who reflected on Coal India’s transition from traditional personnel management to a more holistic and progressive human resources approach. Dr. Ranjan stressed the importance of fostering a culture of innovation, empathy, and continuous learning within the HR field. He urged HR professionals to embrace problem-solving approaches rooted in empathy and innovation to keep pace with the evolving workforce. Additionally, Dr. Ranjan discussed the role of HR in driving infrastructure development and improving employee facilities while emphasizing the need for ongoing policy reforms and professional growth among HR professionals.
The Conclave provides a unique platform for thought-provoking discussions on the latest trends in human resource practices and aims to set new benchmarks for employee relations, welfare programs, and the integration of innovative HR solutions across the coal and mining industries.
Coal India Limited, a Maharatna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, is the world’s largest coal-producing company. Headquartered in Kolkata, CIL plays a crucial role in powering India’s energy needs while actively contributing to national development through employment, community engagement, and sustainable practices.