Telangana Inaugurates Odisha Mine: In a historic milestone for Telangana’s public sector coal mining giant, the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) commenced operations outside the state for the first time in its 136-year history. Telangana Deputy Chief Minister and Finance and Energy Minister Mr. Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu virtually inaugurated the Naini Coal Block in Odisha’s Angul district from Mahatma Jyoti Rao Phule Praja Bhavan in Hyderabad on Tuesday.
Describing the event as a “golden chapter” in SCCL’s journey, Mr. Bhatti Vikramarka said that the commencement of mining operations at the Naini coal block signifies Singareni’s entry into a new era of expansion beyond state borders, with plans to explore global ventures in the near future.
“This is a proud moment not just for Singareni, but for the entire state of Telangana,” he said, adding that despite being allotted the block nine years ago, mining operations could not begin earlier due to delays in clearances. “After our government came to power last year, Chief Minister Mr. A. Revanth Reddy and I pursued the matter persistently with the Union Coal Minister and secured the necessary approvals.”
He credited this rapid progress — from obtaining approvals to launching operations within a year — to the proactive approach and commitment of the Telangana government, reflecting its focus on industrial growth and public sector development.
Commitment to Odisha’s Development
The Deputy Chief Minister also emphasized Singareni’s commitment to the socio-economic development of the Angul region. Recalling his visit to Odisha in July last year, he reiterated the company’s pledge to fulfill all promises made to the local communities.
Highlighting plans for further investment, he announced that Singareni intends to set up a 1600 MW thermal power plant near Naini and requested the Odisha government’s cooperation for land acquisition. “This mine will be maintained as a model of operational and environmental excellence,” he affirmed.
He extended special greetings and good wishes to the people of Odisha on behalf of Chief Minister Mr. Revanth Reddy and the people of Telangana.
A Collaborative Effort
Mr. Bhatti Vikramarka expressed his gratitude to Union Coal Minister Mr. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister from Odisha Mr. Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi, local MLA Mr. Agasti Behera, and other public representatives for their support and cooperation in bringing the Naini project to fruition.
Local Leaders Welcome Singareni
Participating in the inaugural function at the Naini coal block, local MLA Mr. Agasti Behera conveyed his happiness over Singareni’s establishment in the region and pledged full support for its success. He also appealed for collaboration in Angul’s overall development.
Energy Department’s Chief Secretary Mr. Sandeep Kumar Sultania termed the event a “historic occasion” for Singareni that would contribute significantly to its future growth and evolution as a global player in the mining sector.
CMD Charts Future Course
Presiding over the Naini ceremony, SCCL Chairman and Managing Director Mr. N. Balaram credited the Telangana government’s leadership for making the launch possible. He announced the company’s plans to start a thermal power project in the area and undertake additional expansion initiatives.
The event saw participation from key officials including TRANSCO CMD Mr. Krishna Bhaskar, OSD Mr. Surender Reddy, SCCL ED (Coal Movement) Mr. S.D.M. Subhani, Directors Mr. L.V. Suryanarayana and Mr. K. Venkateshwarlu, and Naini GM Mr. T. Srinivasa Rao.
With the launch of the Naini coal block, Singareni sets the stage for a new phase of national and international growth while strengthening inter-state cooperation and regional development.
