New Delhi – In a move highlighting concerns over exclusion from recent benefits, the Coal India ITI Employees’ Union has submitted a formal representation to the Chairman and Managing Director of Coal India Limited (CIL). The union is urging the management to extend the newly launched Smartphone Scheme 2025 to all employees across categories, including ITI-trained workers, apprentices, and trade interns.
The union, which is affiliated with the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) and the Federation, has expressed dissatisfaction over the current scope of the scheme. As per circular CIL/C5A/Smartphone Scheme 2025, dated July 11, 2025, only senior executives and Grade A officers of Coal India are eligible for financial assistance to purchase smartphones under this policy.
Exclusion of Technical and Apprentice Staff Sparks Protest
The union emphasized that employees in technical roles, such as ITI-trained workers, apprentices, and trade interns, have been excluded from the scheme, despite playing a crucial role in day-to-day operations. This has led to concerns of unequal treatment and demoralization among these staff members.
In their letter, the union stated that while the scheme aims to promote digital enablement, restricting it to only top-tier officials is discriminatory. They appealed to the top management to “treat every category of employees in an equal manner and provide affordable digital access opportunities to all.”
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Workers Emphasize Unity, Not Discontent
The union clarified that the intent of the protest is not to question the benefits given to higher-grade officials but to seek basic parity. The letter emphasized that they only seek fair opportunity and recognition for their work, which will boost their morale and foster a greater sense of inclusion. The employees believe that equal access to digital tools like smartphones will enable them to contribute more effectively to the organization and align with Coal India’s ongoing digitization efforts.
As Coal India continues modernizing its workforce and operations, the demand from ITI-backed technical workers underscores the need for inclusive policies that recognize contributions at all levels of the PSU hierarchy.
About Coal India Limited (CIL)
Coal India Limited is a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Coal. Headquartered in Kolkata, it is the world’s largest coal producer, operating through its eight subsidiaries. CIL plays a critical role in meeting India’s energy demands by supplying coal to various sectors, including power generation, steel, and cement. The company is also actively implementing modernization and digitization efforts across its mining operations.
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