New Delhi/Majri Area: In a landmark move towards inclusivity and employee welfare, Dr. Hemant Sharad Pande, Director (HR), Western Coalfields Limited (WCL), inaugurated a Female-Oriented Human Resources Department at the Ekona Mine in the Majri Area. This pioneering initiative is set to be exclusively managed by women employees, making it a first-of-its-kind step within WCL aimed at promoting gender diversity and leadership opportunities for women in the coal industry.
The initiative aligns with WCL’s broader vision to foster a more inclusive workplace culture, especially in sectors traditionally dominated by male workers. By empowering women to take charge of HR functions at the mine level, the company hopes to inspire greater participation of women in core operational areas.
Crèches Inaugurated to Support Working Parents
Further strengthening its commitment to employee welfare, Dr. Pande also inaugurated two modern crèche facilities — one at the Majri Area Office and another at the Ekona Sub Area. These centers are designed to provide safe, nurturing environments for children of WCL employees, enabling working parents — especially mothers — to maintain a healthier work-life balance.
The crèches are equipped with essential amenities and staffed by trained caregivers, reflecting WCL’s dedication to holistic employee well-being and child-friendly workplace policies.
Employee Engagement and Recognition
During his visit, Dr. Pande also conducted a detailed inspection of operational activities at the Ekona Mine. He interacted with both departmental and contractual employees, discussing key issues, safety practices, and avenues for workplace improvements.
In a special ceremony, outstanding performers were felicitated for their commendable contributions across various departments. This gesture underscored WCL’s ongoing efforts to recognize and reward excellence among its workforce.
Dignitaries and Attendees
The event was attended by several key dignitaries including Mr. G. Sitaraman, General Manager (CSR/Welfare), WCL HQ, and Mr. Avinash Prasad, Area General Manager, Majri Area. Heads of Departments, executives, staff members, the Area Joint Consultative Committee (JCC), and Welfare Committee members of Majri Area also marked their presence, reflecting the collective spirit behind the initiatives.
About WCL
Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) is one of the eight subsidiary companies of Coal India Limited (CIL), a Maharatna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Coal, Government of India. Headquartered in Nagpur, WCL operates in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, playing a crucial role in meeting the country’s coal demands for power generation and industrial use.
