Coal India’s 3rd HR/IR Conclave “Utkarsh 2026” Concludes at SECL with Inspiring Address by Pullela Gopichand

The 3rd Coal India HR/IR Conclave “Utkarsh 2026,” hosted by South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), concluded successfully after two days of intensive deliberations, bringing together key stakeholders to reimagine the future of Human Resources and Industrial Relations in India’s coal sector.

Organised under the theme “Shaping Minds, Strengthening Mines – Innovate, Excel, Rise,” the national-level conclave witnessed participation from over 100 HR leaders representing Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries, along with eminent industry experts, academicians, and thought leaders from across the country.

The valedictory session featured an engaging fireside chat with Pullela Gopichand, Chief National Badminton Coach, who drew compelling parallels between sports and organizational excellence. Emphasising discipline, perseverance, and resilience, he remarked, “You don’t get success when you want it; you get it when you deserve it,” underlining the importance of sustained effort and consistency.

The session, moderated by Director (HR), SECL, Biranchi Das, left participants inspired with actionable insights on leadership, performance, and mental strength.

The second day focused on forward-looking themes such as change adoption, *“Mine to Mind” transformation, the future HR landscape, and strategic workforce planning—highlighting HR’s evolving role as a strategic enabler in driving organizational agility and transformation.

The conclave built upon a strong foundation laid on the inaugural day, which was virtually addressed by Chairman, Coal India Limited, B. Sairam. He highlighted the pivotal role of human capital in advancing Coal India’s vision of “Reform, Perform, Transform.”

In his welcome address, Chairman-cum-Managing Director, SECL, Harish Duhan emphasised the importance of nurturing a people-centric culture and continuously investing in employee development and welfare. Chief Vigilance Officer, Coal India Limited, Brajesh Kumar Tripathy, underscored the significance of integrity and collective identity within the organisation.

The keynote address by Director (Human Resources), Coal India Limited, Dr. Vinay Ranjan, titled “From Mind to Mine – The HR Shift Driving Mining Excellence,” outlined the strategic transformation of HR into a key driver of productivity, innovation, and organisational growth.

Over the two days, participants engaged in insightful sessions led by leading CHROs, HR practitioners, and academicians from reputed public and private sector organisations. Key discussions revolved around building trust in leadership, value creation through HR, responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in HR, and strengthening social dialogue in the future of work.

A dedicated exhibition stall showcasing HR initiatives and achievements of Coal India and Eastern Coalfields Limited was also inaugurated, highlighting innovative and employee-centric practices across subsidiaries.

A distinctive feature of “Utkarsh 2026” was the presentation of concept papers and innovative HR initiatives by teams from various Coal India subsidiaries, fostering cross-learning and exchange of best practices.

The conclave concluded with a shared commitment among participants to strengthen HR systems, foster a culture of trust and performance, and align people strategies with Coal India’s broader vision of sustainable and efficient mining.