New Delhi: The Directorate General of Mines Safety marked 125 years of service in mines safety as Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje stressed uniform safety standards across the mining sector. She addressed the foundation day event held at the DGMS headquarters in Dhanbad on Tuesday.
Karandlaje said the 125-year journey of DGMS reflected the dedication and sacrifices of generations of officials and mine workers. She paid tribute to miners who worked under difficult and risky conditions, noting that their efforts continued to support India’s growth and nation-building.
She reiterated that worker safety remained the government’s top priority, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “First Safety.” Moreover, she underlined the role of DGMS in enforcing safety norms across mining operations. She also called for stronger coordination between the Centre and states to improve compliance.
The Minister highlighted the relevance of labour reforms and said the four Labour Codes aimed to build a Viksit Bharat. She noted that the Codes ensured social security, including for contractual workers. In addition, she urged DGMS to promote awareness of the reforms and use modern technology to strengthen mine safety.
DGMS 125 years event highlights reforms and technology push
The DGMS 125 years celebrations were attended by Director General DGMS Ujjwal Tah, Joint Secretary Deepika Kachhal, senior officials, industry representatives, and other stakeholders. During the event, the Minister visited the exhibition, old records section, and models gallery that showcased the evolution of mines safety practices in India.
As part of the programme, dignitaries undertook a plantation drive, reaffirming DGMS’s commitment to environmental sustainability. A short film tracing DGMS milestones, regulatory efforts, and technological progress in mines safety was also screened.
The Minister released the new DGMS logo, replacing the earlier one. She also unveiled the DGMS theme song and a digital coffee table book documenting the organisation’s journey. In addition, DGMS released a souvenir and digital compendium highlighting best practices in mines safety.
Rescue team members received felicitation for their exemplary service during emergency operations that safeguarded miners’ lives. Officials said DGMS, established in 1902, continued to play a vital role in regulating safety and health standards in mines, while supporting sustainable growth of the mining industry.
