SECL launches Coal India’s 1st fully women-operated dispensary in Bilaspur

New Delhi: In a landmark initiative aimed at promoting women empowerment within the coal sector, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited, has inaugurated the company’s first fully women-operated dispensary at its headquarters in Bilaspur. The Vasant Vihar Dispensary, now managed entirely by a team of 14 women professionals including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and support staff, marks a significant step towards gender inclusivity in the public sector.

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The facility was formally inaugurated by Harish Duhan, Chairman-cum-Managing Director of SECL, in the presence of key board members including N Franklin Jayakumar, Director Technical (Operations & Project/Planning), Biranchi Das, Director (HR), D Sunil Kumar, Director (Finance), and Himanshu Jain, Chief Vigilance Officer.

Addressing the gathering, Harish Duhan expressed pride in the launch of the fully women-operated healthcare facility and highlighted the Ministry of Coal’s broader vision to enhance the participation of women in the coal industry. “The Hon’ble Minister of Coal envisions increased leadership opportunities for women in the sector. This dispensary is a step in that direction, and we are committed to undertaking many more such initiatives going forward,” he said.

Director (HR) Biranchi Das praised the development as a progressive move within SECL's broader strategy to create a more equitable workplace. “The Vasant Vihar Dispensary is not just a facility, but a symbol of meaningful empowerment. We are dedicated to ensuring equal opportunities for women across all levels of our organisation,” he stated.

The dispensary is equipped with a range of essential medical services including OPD consultations, emergency care, ECG facilities, a dressing and injection room, pathology blood collection centre, OPD pharmacy, and both routine and emergency referral services. The all-women team includes five doctors, along with nurses, a matron, and pharmacy staff.

The inauguration event was also attended by Dr Pratibha Pathak, Chief Medical Superintendent; Dr Shrutidev Mishra, CMS; Dr Arihant Jain, Deputy CMS; as well as department heads, trade union representatives, and numerous SECL officials and employees.

The initiative is expected not only to improve the sensitivity and quality of medical care but also to serve as a pioneering example of women's leadership in the coal industry. Through such efforts, SECL continues to champion inclusivity and set new benchmarks for progressive workplace practices within India's public sector enterprises.

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