In the financial year 2023-24, Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), a Mini Ratna subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL), demonstrated a strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by dedicating Rs 7.77 crore to various initiatives. Even without a CSR obligation under the Companies Act, BCCL actively pursued community welfare efforts in alignment with CIL’s CSR policy. The company’s CSR activities encompassed critical areas such as education, healthcare, skill development, disaster relief, and environmental sustainability. Through these programs, BCCL aimed to uplift communities in and around its operational areas, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable growth and socio-economic development.
Investing in Community Development
BCCL operates under a robust CSR framework, aligning its activities with the guidelines of the Companies Act, 2013, CIL’s CSR policy, and recommendations by the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE). This year, the CSR initiatives aimed to bridge social and economic gaps in the regions surrounding its coal mining areas, addressing the needs of marginalized communities and project-affected people.
Key CSR Initiatives in 2023-24
BCCL’s Rs 7.77 crore CSR expenditure supported a variety of initiatives across multiple sectors. Noteworthy projects include:
- Youth Skill Development: BCCL collaborated with the Central Institute of Plastics Engineering & Technology (CIPET) to provide youth with vocational training in plastic engineering. This initiative equips young individuals with practical skills to enhance employability and livelihood opportunities.
- Educational Enhancement: The establishment of Mini Science Labs in schools demonstrated BCCL’s commitment to fostering scientific curiosity and supporting STEM education, helping young learners gain exposure to practical science.
- Access to Clean Water: Recognizing the importance of health and sanitation, BCCL invested in establishing drinking water facilities. This initiative ensured safe water access, addressing a crucial need in communities surrounding coal mining areas.
Commitment to CSR Compliance and Responsible Practices
BCCL’s CSR efforts are governed by a well-defined policy that reflects its commitment to the community’s overall well-being. Despite having no mandatory CSR liability under the Companies Act due to its financial performance, BCCL prioritized impactful activities and responsibly allocated funds, with an additional Rs 2.31 crore designated for ongoing projects under the ‘Unspent CSR Account.’
Social Focus: Health, Education, and Environment
BCCL’s CSR strategy prioritized three main areas this fiscal year:
- Healthcare and Nutrition: BCCL focused on preventive healthcare and nutritional programs to enhance overall community health. Projects included nutritional arrangements for underprivileged children, showcasing BCCL’s proactive approach in addressing malnutrition.
- Educational and Vocational Training: Education initiatives focused on empowering the local youth with skill-based training, significantly contributing to employment generation. This aligns with CIL’s broader mission of promoting educational advancements in project-affected communities.
- Environmental Sustainability: Environmental initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity, improving air quality, and sustaining local ecosystems highlighted BCCL’s commitment to minimizing its environmental impact, crucial for a mining entity.
Financial Transparency and Future Commitments
BCCL’s CSR expenditure totaled Rs 10.09 crore in 2023-24, with Rs 7.77 crore spent directly on CSR projects and Rs 2.31 crore set aside for ongoing initiatives. By adhering to financial transparency and consistently meeting CSR commitments, BCCL reinforces its image as a responsible corporate entity. It has further committed to sustaining these efforts in the coming years to continue driving positive change in communities.
Bharat Coking Coal Limited’s Social Vision
BCCL’s CSR activities reflect a mission to foster inclusive growth and address societal needs. Through a focused CSR policy that aligns with national goals, BCCL showcases how a coal mining company can balance operational goals with societal responsibilities, contributing positively to the socio-economic landscape of India’s coal-mining regions.
With ongoing projects and an increased budget allocation in line with its CSR vision, BCCL is set to enhance its impact further, demonstrating how corporate entities can integrate social responsibility with business operations. This comprehensive CSR spending reflects the core values that drive BCCL’s commitment to sustainable community development, emphasizing the role of responsible corporate practices in building a stronger and more inclusive society.
You Learn: A Legacy of Positive Change
BCCL’s 2023-24 CSR spending reflects the company’s dedication to supporting and uplifting communities in and around its operational areas. By prioritizing initiatives in education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and skill development, BCCL is not only addressing immediate community needs but is also investing in long-term social development. This balanced approach demonstrates that even in resource-intensive sectors like coal mining, corporations can play a pivotal role in contributing to society’s welfare.
BCCL’s unwavering commitment to responsible practices and inclusive growth sets a benchmark in corporate social responsibility, leaving a legacy of positive change in India’s coal-belt communities. Looking ahead, BCCL aims to continue its role as a socially responsible corporate leader, fostering resilience, empowerment, and sustainable development for generations to come.
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