THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, MARCH 17, 2026

Vedanta Aluminium has once again demonstrated its leadership in industrial safety, with its Jamkhani Coal Mine emerging as a standout performer at the Annual Mines Safety Fortnight (AMSF) Awards held under the aegis of the Directorate General of Mines Safety in Sambalpur. The mine secured the prestigious Overall Best Mine Award, while also clinching top honours in the Contractor (MDO), Safety Management Plan, and Mine Lighting and Illumination Scheme categories.

The awards, which recognise excellence and commitment to the highest standards of mine safety, were received by Vivek Uplanchiwar, Chief Operating Officer, Jamkhani Coal Mines, along with his team and their MDO partner. The recognition underscores the company’s unwavering focus on embedding robust safety systems and fostering a culture of accountability across operations.

A rigorous and comprehensive evaluation process formed the backbone of the recognition, with an external AMSF inspection team comprising ten subject experts, including an Internal Safety Organisation observer and senior officials from Mahanadi Coalfields Limited. The team assessed multiple parameters such as operational practices, safety systems, and workforce engagement, highlighting Jamkhani’s consistent adherence to best-in-class mining standards.

Commenting on the achievement, Rajiv Kumar, CEO, Vedanta Aluminium, said, “I congratulate the Jamkhani Coal Mine team and the MDO partner for securing these prestigious recognitions at the Annual Mines Safety Fortnight Awards. Safety is a core value at Vedanta Aluminium, and our Zero Harm philosophy is about instilling behavioural change and empowering every individual to make safety a personal responsibility. These awards reflect the team’s strong commitment to disciplined operations, proactive safety practices, and continuous improvement.”

The Annual Mines Safety Fortnight programme, held from December 2 to 15 at the Jamkhani Coal Mine in Odisha, witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 600 employees, business partners, and workmen. Built around the theme “Aapka Pariwar Aapka Intezar Kar Raha Hai”, the initiative emphasised behavioural safety, personal accountability, and strict adherence to safe mining practices.

Beyond its operational milestones, Vedanta Aluminium continues to drive socio-economic transformation in its areas of operation through initiatives in education, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, rural infrastructure, and grassroots sports and culture. By working closely with local authorities and communities, the company is ensuring that safety and sustainability remain central to its long-term growth and nation-building efforts.