Raipur: Harish Duhan has been appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), a flagship subsidiary of Coal India Limited (CIL). The announcement comes as part of the government’s effort to infuse dynamic leadership into one of India’s largest coal-producing companies.
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Duhan, an accomplished professional with extensive experience in the energy and mining sectors, succeeds the outgoing CMD, taking charge of SECL at a critical juncture when the energy sector is undergoing rapid transformation to balance growing demand with sustainability goals.
A Distinguished Career
Before this appointment, Harish Duhan held key positions in various organizations, showcasing a proven track record of strategic leadership and operational excellence. With his deep understanding of the coal industry and experience in driving large-scale projects, Duhan is expected to steer SECL towards achieving its ambitious production and sustainability targets.
Challenges Ahead
As the CMD of SECL, Duhan will oversee the company’s vast operations across Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, managing over 80 mines that contribute significantly to India’s coal production. The appointment comes at a time when SECL is working to ramp up coal production to meet India’s increasing energy demands while also focusing on sustainable practices.
India’s coal sector has been under pressure to enhance efficiency and adopt cleaner technologies. SECL, being a key player, is pivotal to these efforts. Duhan’s leadership is expected to focus on modernizing mining operations, adopting eco-friendly practices, and ensuring the welfare of the workforce while boosting coal output.
Vision for SECL’s Future
In his new role, Duhan is likely to emphasize innovation, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility. With the government pushing for increased domestic coal production to reduce imports, SECL’s role is more critical than ever.
Addressing stakeholders after his appointment, Duhan expressed his commitment to fulfilling SECL’s objectives. “It is an honor to lead SECL, a cornerstone of India’s energy security. My focus will be on driving efficiency, fostering innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth that aligns with national energy goals,” he stated.
Impact on India’s Energy Landscape
SECL’s performance is closely tied to India’s energy strategy, as coal continues to be a primary energy source. Under Duhan’s leadership, SECL is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Coal India’s position in the global market and ensuring reliable energy supplies for the country.
About SECL
South Eastern Coalfields Limited, headquartered in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, is one of the eight subsidiaries of Coal India Limited. With a workforce of over 65,000 employees, SECL contributes more than 25% of Coal India’s total production, making it a critical player in the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Harish Duhan’s appointment signals a fresh direction for SECL as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving energy landscape. His leadership is expected to bring renewed vigor to the organization, ensuring its continued contribution to India’s energy needs while embracing the global shift towards sustainability.


