Coal Ministry Launches First-Ever CSR Framework for Coal Companies

The Union Ministry of Coal and Coal India Limited launched the first sector-wide Comprehensive CSR Framework for Indian Coal Companies on 8 September 2026 in New Delhi. The framework is the first sector-specific Corporate Social Responsibility guideline in India after the statutory CSR rules under the Companies Act, 2013.

Corporate Social Responsibility in India

Corporate Social Responsibility, or CSR, refers to company-funded activities for social welfare, environmental protection, education, health, and community development. In India, CSR provisions are linked to Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013, which applies to eligible companies based on net worth, turnover, or net profit thresholds.

Coal Sector CSR Framework

The new framework was drafted by the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs to make CSR activities in mining regions transparent, outcome-oriented, and measurable. The framework is intended for Indian coal companies and covers local development needs in coal-bearing areas.

The launch event was led by Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, Minister of State Satish Chandra Dubey, and Ministry of Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt. A stakeholder meeting was also held on 7 September 2026 under Additional Secretary Rupinder Brar, with a focus on local priorities and green credit-linked activities.

Coal India Limited CSR Initiatives

Coal India Limited completed more than 1,050 bone marrow transplants for children under its Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana. Under this programme, CIL provides up to ₹10 lakh per patient to 21 empanelled hospitals, with a total outlay of ₹130 crore across four phases.

CIL’s Nanha Sa Dil cardiac initiative has screened over 2 lakh children and performed more than 1,500 free corrective surgeries since March 2024. These programmes are part of the company’s health-focused CSR portfolio in child care and specialised treatment.

Important Facts for Exams

• Section 135 of the Companies Act, 2013 provides the legal basis for CSR in India.
• Coal India Limited is a Maharatna public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Coal.
• The Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs functions under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
• Green credits are linked to environmental activities that can be quantified under emerging climate-related frameworks.

CSR in Mining Regions

Mining-region CSR in India often covers health care, drinking water, sanitation, education, skill development, and environmental restoration. Coal-sector CSR programmes are commonly implemented in districts affected by mining, displacement, and industrial pollution.