The Telangana Government has brought early festive joy to the hardworking employees of Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) by announcing a significant bonus right before the Dussehra festival. This move is set to benefit both permanent and contract workers of the coal mining company, adding to their celebratory spirit.
Rs 796 Crores Bonus Announced for Singareni Workers
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy revealed that a total of Rs 796 crores will be distributed among the coal workers. The bonus is derived from the profits the SCCL has accumulated over the last financial year. Permanent employees are in for a major windfall, with each set to receive a bonus of Rs 1.90 lakh, while contract workers will receive Rs 5,000 each. This marks the first time in the company’s history that contract workers will receive a bonus, signaling a positive shift toward inclusive employee welfare.
Permanent Employees to Receive Rs 1.90 Lakh Bonus
For the 41,387 permanent employees of SCCL, this year’s bonus is an improvement over last year’s Rs 1.70 lakh, offering an additional Rs 20,000. This increase comes as a token of appreciation for their efforts and contribution to the company’s success, especially during crucial times like the Telangana movement, where Singareni workers played a pivotal role.
Recognition of Singareni Workers’ Contribution
In his address to the media, CM Revanth Reddy praised the coal workers for their enduring contributions to the Telangana movement. Their steadfast dedication was instrumental in the realization of a separate Telangana state. By announcing this bonus, the state government acknowledges their efforts and strives to boost morale, further enhancing the spirit of unity and hard work within the workforce.
Expansion Plans: Investing in the Future of Singareni
Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka provided a detailed insight into SCCL’s financial performance and expansion plans. With a net profit of Rs 4,701 crore for the financial year 2023-2024, the company plans to invest Rs 2,289 crore in expanding its operations and other future ventures. This investment will include the growth of SCCL’s coal mining operations and a foray into renewable energy.
Solar and Thermal Power Expansion
Among the future expansion projects, a 1,000 MW solar power plant and a 500 MW pumped storage plant in Ramagundam are key highlights. Additionally, the company aims to expand its thermal power capacity with a 1×800 MW plant at the existing facility in Jaipur and a 1×800 MW plant in Ramagundam in collaboration with TSGENCO. Furthermore, SCCL is planning to set up a super-critical thermal power plant with a capacity of 2,400 MW at Naini coal block in Odisha.
First-Ever Bonus for Contract Workers
In a groundbreaking move, the government has decided to award a bonus to SCCL’s contract workers for the first time. Currently, there are 25,000 contract workers at Singareni, and each will receive a bonus of Rs 5,000. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to the welfare of all categories of employees, ensuring that even contract workers are recognized for their efforts during the festive season.
Enhancing Worker Welfare and Facilities
The welfare of Singareni workers remains a priority for the state government. As part of SCCL’s expansion plans, new initiatives aimed at improving worker welfare include the establishment of new residential schools for workers’ children, integrated educational institutions, and a multi-specialty hospital in Hyderabad. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for workers and their families but also demonstrate the government’s long-term commitment to their well-being.
The Broader Impact of Singareni’s Success
Singareni Collieries has been a crucial player in India’s coal industry, supplying coal to thermal power generation plants within Telangana and exporting to other states. The company’s continued success directly impacts the state’s energy needs and industrial growth. Its future investments in coal mining and renewable energy projects will contribute significantly to Telangana’s overall economic development.
In conclusion, the Telangana Government’s announcement of a Rs 796 crore bonus for Singareni workers brings much-needed festive cheer to coal miners across the state. With substantial bonuses for both permanent and contract workers, coupled with ambitious expansion plans for the future, SCCL is set to grow even stronger. This initiative reinforces the state government’s recognition of the critical role Singareni workers play in both the company’s and the state’s progress, ensuring that the future remains bright for everyone involved.