New Delhi: The Government of India has formally approved the appointment of N. Franklin Jayakumar, currently Director (Technical) at South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), as the new Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL).
The Ministry of Coal communicated the Presidential approval to Coal India Limited through an order dated September 7, 2026, formally concluding the appointment process.
Jayakumar will assume charge as CMD, NCL from the date he takes over the office. His appointment will remain effective until May 31, 2031, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
N. Franklin Jayakumar to Lead NCL
Jayakumar takes charge at an important time for NCL, which plays a significant role in supplying coal to India’s power sector.
Under his leadership, the company’s focus is expected to include:
- Increasing coal production and dispatch
- Improving operational efficiency
- Strengthening mine safety
- Promoting technology adoption
- Advancing sustainable mining practices
- Strengthening NCL’s contribution to the power sector
NCL, a major subsidiary of Coal India Limited, operates in the Singrauli coalfield and is among India’s important coal-producing companies.
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Over Three Decades of Mining Experience
N. Franklin Jayakumar brings more than three decades of experience in the mining sector, with expertise spanning both underground and opencast mining operations.
He has handled important technical, operational and management responsibilities during his career and has worked across different mining projects and organisations.
Jayakumar took charge as Director (Technical) at SECL in February 2024. He has also held responsibilities related to technical projects and planning during his tenure.
Before joining the SECL board, he served in various roles within the company and gained extensive experience in the management and operation of large-scale mechanised mines.
Extensive Experience in Singrauli Coalfield
Jayakumar has also spent around 18 years with Singrauli Collieries Company Limited, where he handled various technical and managerial responsibilities.
His experience includes working with both underground and opencast mines, giving him exposure to large-scale mechanised mining operations.
During his career, he has been associated with major mining projects and has handled responsibilities related to project execution, planning, operations and technical management.
His extensive operational experience is expected to support NCL in strengthening production, dispatch and mine-management capabilities.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
Jayakumar holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering from the College of Engineering, Guindy, Anna University.
He has also completed:
- A Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Engineering and Management
- An MBA in Human Resource Management
- A Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
He is also a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers (India).
His academic background combines mining and technical expertise with environmental management, human resources and project management.
NCL’s Role in India’s Coal Supply
NCL is one of the key subsidiaries of Coal India Limited and operates primarily in the Singrauli coalfield.
The company supplies coal to the power sector and other industries, making its production and dispatch performance important for India’s energy security.
With Jayakumar’s appointment, NCL is expected to continue strengthening its operational capabilities while maintaining emphasis on safety, technology, productivity and sustainable mining.
About Northern Coalfields Limited
Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) is a major subsidiary of Coal India Limited engaged in coal mining in the Singrauli coalfield. The company is an important coal supplier to India’s power sector and operates large-scale mining projects with a focus on production, safety, operational efficiency and sustainable mining.
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