By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA| In a significant leadership development in the coal sector, the Ministry of Coal, Government of India, has entrusted Biranchi Das, Director (Human Resource), South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), with the additional charge of Director (Human Resource), Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL). The appointment, approved by the Minister of Coal, will take effect from July 1, 2026, for a period of six months, or until a regular appointment is made, whichever is earlier.

The additional responsibility reflects the confidence reposed in Biranchi Das for his extensive experience in human resource management, industrial relations and employee welfare. Since assuming charge as Director (Human Resource) at SECL on March 20, 2024, he has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at strengthening employee welfare while integrating social responsibility with organizational development.

One of the most impactful programmes under his leadership has been “SECL Ki Dhadkan”, the company’s flagship CSR initiative that has enabled 300 life-saving congenital heart surgeries for underprivileged children. The initiative has emerged as a benchmark in corporate social responsibility by extending quality healthcare to children from economically weaker sections.

Another notable programme, “SECL Ke Sushrut”, has completed two successful batches of students receiving coaching for medical entrance examinations. The initiative also achieved a unique distinction by becoming the first CSR programme of any Coal Public Sector Undertaking to be listed on the Government of India’s Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Portal, enhancing transparency and direct beneficiary support.

In the area of human resource management, SECL has recorded significant achievements under his stewardship. Since the financial year 2024-25, the company has provided employment to more than 1,623 landowners and 946 dependent family members, reflecting its commitment to rehabilitation, community development and inclusive growth. The organization has also introduced several employee-centric initiatives aimed at improving industrial relations, organizational efficiency and workforce engagement.

Biranchi Das began his professional career in 1994 as a Welfare Officer (Trainee) at Deulbera Colliery in Talcher Area of Mahanadi Coalfields Limited. An alumnus of Utkal University, Odisha, he holds a postgraduate degree in Personnel Management and Industrial Relations. His association with MCL spans several important assignments, during which he contributed significantly to strengthening industrial relations and played a key role in framing major human resource policies, including the House Allotment and Administration Rules for Non-Executives.

In addition to his responsibilities at SECL, he currently serves on the Boards of Chhattisgarh East Railway Limited (CERL) and Chhattisgarh East-West Railway Limited (CEWRL), contributing to strategic decisions in allied infrastructure sectors.

His return to MCL in an additional leadership capacity brings together institutional knowledge, administrative experience and a proven record of people-centric governance. Industry observers believe the dual responsibility will further strengthen human resource practices across two of Coal India’s major subsidiaries while supporting employee welfare, operational excellence and sustainable organizational growth.

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