39th Zonal Mine Rescue Competition Concludes under the Aegis of DGMS

The 39th Zonal Mine Rescue Competition – 2025, organized by Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) under the aegis of the Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), concluded on a grand note with a prize distribution and closing ceremony held late Thursday evening at the CCL Headquarters, Ranchi.

The competition was conducted from 8 to 9 October 2025 at the Mine Rescue Centre, Ramgarh, and Bhurkunda Underground Mine.

The closing ceremony was presided over by Mr. Nilendu Kumar Singh, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, CCL, while Dr. S. S. Prasad, Deputy Director General of Mines Safety (Southeastern Region), graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Other senior dignitaries present included Mr. Pawan Kumar Mishra, Director (Finance), Mr. C. S. Tiwari, Director (Technical/Operations), and Mr. Pankaj Kumar, Chief Vigilance Officer, CCL.

On behalf of DGMS, Mr. Ajit Kumar, Director of Mines Safety, served as the Chief Judge, along with several senior officers of DGMS and CCL acting as judges.

NK Area Emerges Overall Champion

The North Karanpura (NK) Area team displayed exceptional performance and was declared the Overall Best Team of the competition. The Barka Sayal Area team secured the second position, while Magadh-Sanghamitra Area claimed the third position.

Awards and certificates were distributed to participants who excelled in various stages of the competition, recognizing their skill, discipline, and readiness in mine rescue operations.

Emphasis on Safety Culture

In his address, Chief Guest Dr. S. S. Prasad emphasized the importance of a strong safety culture in mining operations. He commended the promptness, courage, and dedication of the rescue teams, urging everyone to uphold the highest safety standards and make safety an integral part of their workplace ethos.

CMD Mr. Nilendu Kumar Singh lauded the efforts of all participating teams and reiterated that safety remains the top priority for CCL. He congratulated the organizing committee and rescue personnel for ensuring the success of the event.

Cultural Performances Add Splendour

The ceremony began with the lighting of the lamp and rendition of the Coal India Corporate Song. A military band from the Punjab Regiment presented an inspiring performance to welcome the guests.

Students from DAV School, Gandhinagar, Ranchi, captivated the audience with Ganesh Vandana, a musical performance, Mahishasura Mardini dance, and a theatrical presentation on mine rescue operations, which received high praise from attendees.

The event was attended by General Manager (Safety & Rescue) Mr. Vinod Kumar, Heads of various departments, General Managers from different areas, Superintendent (Rescue Service) Mr. Vikas Kumar, CCL officers and employees, and representatives of JCSC, Safety Board, and Welfare Board.