In a significant recognition of Coal Ministry’s ongoing efforts to modernise and digitise the mining sector, South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a subsidiary of Coal India Limited under the Ministry of Coal, showcased its flagship digital transformation initiative, DigiCOAL, at the National Workshop on “Digital Initiatives for Increasing Transparency in Governance” organised by the Central Vigilance Commission at the SCOPE Convention Centre in New Delhi on 11 February 2026.

The presentation of DigiCOAL at a national platform underscores the larger policy direction and strategic guidance of the Ministry of Coal, which has consistently emphasised transparency, accountability, and technology-led transformation in the coal and mining sector. The initiative reflects the Ministry’s long-term vision to make mining operations more efficient, data-driven, and digitally integrated, aligning with the Government of India’s broader push toward transparent governance.

Driving Transparency Through Digital Transformation

DigiCOAL represents a comprehensive digital ecosystem designed to strengthen operational oversight and institutional accountability across mining activities. By integrating advanced technologies into core processes, SECL has enhanced real-time monitoring, data analytics, and decision-making capabilities.

Key components of the initiative include:

• Real-Time HEMM Fleet Monitoring: Sensor-based systems track heavy earth moving machinery such as shovels, dumpers, and dozers, monitoring location, operating hours, and fuel consumption. The system enables automated detection of anomalies such as unusual fuel drops, excessive idle time, and route deviations, thereby reducing operational inefficiencies and improving transparency.
• Video Analytics and Connected Worker Systems: These technologies enhance safety compliance, operational control, and emergency response mechanisms, contributing to safer and more accountable mining practices.
• Drone-Based Surveillance: The use of drones for mine surveys enables precise identification of encroachments, monitoring of haul roads and slopes, and assessment of drainage systems, particularly during the monsoon season. This strengthens preventive monitoring and regulatory compliance.
• Data-Driven Mine Planning: Advanced analytics and optimised drilling and blasting systems have made production processes more scientific, efficient, and measurable.
• Integrated Digital Platforms: Digital land records, online training modules, spare management systems, and a centralised digital war room collectively create a tamper-proof and unified digital governance framework.

The inclusion of DigiCOAL as a model initiative in the national workshop on transparency highlights how policy direction from the Ministry of Coal, combined with technology adoption at the operational level, is reshaping the mining landscape. Initiatives such as DigiCOAL demonstrate how the sector is evolving to meet national energy demands responsibly—through greater transparency, enhanced efficiency, and technology-enabled governance. This recognition reinforces the commitment of the coal sector to build a future-ready, accountable, and digitally empowered mining ecosystem.

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Shuhaib T

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