With over 130 years of history, Singareni Collieries stands as a crown jewel for Telangana and one of the oldest coal companies in India. Despite facing repeated allegations and criticisms, the company has transformed from a loss-making entity, plagued by strikes, protests, and agitations, into an organization generating annual net profits of Rs. 6,300 crore.

This achievement is credited to the collective strength of its workforce, the strategic planning of capable officials, and the persistent efforts of public representatives prioritizing welfare. Amid concerns over the recent Nine Block tender controversy, questions have arisen about whether the company might revert to past turbulent conditions. Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka has emphasized that such situations will not be allowed to recur and is focusing on strengthening Singareni.

A jewel for the state

Singareni is considered a gem for Telangana. Known for operational efficiency, transparency, and strong management, it stands out among India’s top enterprises. The company is jointly owned by the Telangana government (51%) and the central government (49%), employing around 42,000 staff members and generating over Rs. 30,000 crore in turnover with Rs. 6,300 crore in net profit. While the financially struggling state government pays 10% interest on bank loans, Singareni enjoys borrowing at just 6.9%, demonstrating its financial resilience.

Need for a competent leader

Despite strong finances, Singareni has recently faced controversies and allegations of syndicate interference and self-serving attempts. There is now an urgent need to appoint a full-time, honest, and capable Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) to steer the company toward growth. Temporary appointments are insufficient. Singareni has potential not only in coal mining but also in other mineral sectors, both domestically and internationally, which requires decisive leadership to harness fully.

Potential for expansion

Currently, Singareni operates with over Rs. 30,000 crore in turnover. Experts and senior officials assert that, based on its capabilities, the company can expand its turnover to Rs. 2 lakh crore and achieve annual net profits of at least Rs. 10,000 crore. The Deputy Chief Minister has reportedly begun planning to guide Singareni in this direction. Strategies are being devised to exploit domestic and international opportunities independently, ensuring steady growth without external interference. Gradual progress along this path could make Singareni a backbone of Telangana’s economy, though recent developments have posed risks to its brand image. Protecting the company’s reputation is a shared responsibility of representatives, officials, and employees.

Support from the central government

Traditionally focused on coal mining, Singareni has diversified its business model in recent years into thermal power, solar energy, pumped storage hydro, and critical mineral exploration, further strengthening its financial base. To expand even more effectively, central government support is essential where needed. Experts and former officials note that with independent operations free from political or syndicate influence, achieving a Rs. 2 lakh crore turnover is well within reach. With proper planning, leveraging opportunities at home and abroad, expanding employment, and implementing welfare programs, Singareni can continue to transform Telangana’s vision of prosperity into reality through the “black gold” of coal.