The celebrations assumed special significance as the nation is commemorating 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’, the National Song. The song was sung on the occasion with patriotic fervour, adding to the spirit of the celebrations.Following the flag hoisting, the CMD took the salute and inspected the ceremonial parade comprising platoons of ECL Security and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Addressing the gathering, Jha paid tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices led to India’s independence and highlighted ECL’s role in strengthening the country’s energy security and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.

He said the company’s growth should extend beyond coal production and encompass operational excellence, quality, safety, technological innovation, environmental responsibility, transparency and the welfare of employees and communities.

The CMD called upon Team ECL to continue working with discipline, innovation and unity and contribute towards strengthening India’s energy security and industrial development.

Among those present on the occasion were Director (Finance) Shri Md. Anzar Alam; Director (HR) Shri Gunjan Kumar Sinha; Director (Technical/P&P) Shri Girish Gopinathan Nair; Director (Technical/Operations) Shri Chitranjan Kumar; Chief Vigilance Officer, ECL, Smt. Deepti Patel; and President, Shatakshi Mahila Mandal, Smt. Kiran Jha, along with Vice-Presidents Smt. Anubha Sinha, Smt. Geetha Radhamani and Smt. Shweta Kumari.

Representatives of trade unions, heads of departments, employees and contractual workers from various units of ECL also attended the celebrations.

The programme concluded with the felicitation of members of the ECL Mines Rescue Team. Smt. Kiran Jha, president, Satakshi Mahila Mandal, presented certificates of appreciation and mementoes to members of the team who had participated in rescue operations following the disaster at the under-construction Teesta Stage-VI Hydroelectric Power Project in Sikkim.

This high-level recognition celebrates Shri Jha’s exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and hands-on dedication to the coal mining sector. The award specifically highlights his successful efforts in driving modern innovation, improving everyday operational safety and efficiency, and promoting sustainable, eco-friendly growth within the industry.