New Delhi: Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) Rajmahal Area has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shreel Foundation, Deoghar, for a skill development project focused on leaf-plate and bowl manufacturing.
The MoU was signed on 21 August 2026 as part of an initiative aimed at creating self-employment opportunities and promoting sustainable livelihoods among women from villages affected by mining activities.
ECL Rajmahal Area and Shreel Foundation Sign MoU
The MoU was formally signed by Mr. Dinesh Sharma, General Manager (Operations), ECL Rajmahal Area, and Mr. Rakesh Verma, Secretary, Shreel Foundation.
Under the project, women from affected villages will receive practical training to develop skills related to the production and marketing of leaf plates and bowls.
The initiative will focus on:
- Leaf-plate and bowl manufacturing
- Sales and marketing skills
- Self-employment opportunities
- Sustainable livelihood generation
- Women’s skill development
30 Women to Receive Skill Development Training
As part of the project, 30 women from affected villages will be trained in leaf-plate and bowl manufacturing.
The training is designed to help participants develop practical skills that can support income-generating activities. Along with manufacturing, the women will also receive training related to the sale and marketing of their products.
The initiative aims to provide women with opportunities to pursue self-employment and establish sustainable sources of livelihood.
ECL Rajmahal Area to Provide Financial Support
ECL Rajmahal Area will provide financial assistance for the implementation of the project.
The company’s support will help facilitate the training programme and promote livelihood opportunities for women in communities surrounding its operational area.
The initiative is also aligned with broader community development efforts aimed at strengthening the economic participation of local communities.
Focus on Women Empowerment and Community Development
The MoU reflects ECL Rajmahal Area’s focus on women’s empowerment, skill development and community welfare. By providing training in manufacturing, sales and marketing, the project seeks to help women build practical capabilities and become more economically self-reliant.
The initiative also highlights the role of skill development programmes in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for communities in and around mining areas.
About Eastern Coalfields Limited
Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL) is a Schedule B Central Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Coal. It is engaged in coal mining operations primarily in West Bengal and Jharkhand, contributing significantly to India’s coal production and energy sector. ECL plays a key role in supplying coal to power plants and industries across the country while focusing on safe and sustainable mining practices.
