Kolkata: Coal India Limited (CIL) organised a Kantha Fair at its headquarters in New Town, Kolkata, showcasing embroidery work by 200-250 women artisans from West Bengal. These artisans are part of the Kantha Skill Centre, set up under CIL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to promote skill development and economic independence.
The fair highlighted CIL’s ongoing efforts to support women through training and entrepreneurship. The event was attended by senior CIL officials, including Director (Personnel & Industrial Relations) Vinay Ranjan, Director (Finance) Mukesh Agrawal, and Chief Vigilance Officer Brajesh Kumar Tripathy. Three artisans were recognised for their outstanding work.
CIL and its subsidiaries marked the occasion with various programmes focused on women’s empowerment. Central Coalfields Ltd in Ranchi organised an event featuring tribal art, women-led businesses, and technical skills. Other subsidiaries, including Bharat Coking Coal Ltd, Central Mine Planning & Design Institute Ltd, Eastern Coalfields Ltd, Northern Coalfields Ltd, South Eastern Coalfields Ltd, Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd, and Western Coalfields Ltd, also held similar programmes.
The Ministry of Coal’s Additional Secretary Rupinder Brar and CIL’s Director (Personnel & Industrial Relations) Vinay Ranjan addressed the event virtually. Brar stated that the initiative aligns with CIL’s efforts to create sustainable livelihoods through CSR programmes. Ranjan emphasised the company’s role in supporting marginalised communities and preserving traditional crafts.
Through such initiatives, CIL aims to strengthen skill development, promote local artisans, and contribute to economic growth while keeping traditional craftsmanship alive.
BI Bureau
