The Ministry of Labour and Employment, through a notification dated on June 17, 2025, granted the coal industry as a public utility service under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, for an additional period of six-months effective from June 28, 2025. This extension is made under the proviso to sub-clause (vi) of clause (n) of section 2 of the Act.
The coal industry is listed under Item 4 of the First Schedule to the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947. It was earlier given a public utility service for six months commencing from December 28, 2024, according to the notification issued on December 11, 2024. The Central Government, satisfied that such continuity is in the public interest, has prolonged the status further to ensure uninterrupted functioning of services in the sector.
With this expansion, the strict industrial disputes resolution mechanism apply to the coal industry. Any strike in this sector would entail advance notice and adherence to the procedure laid down under the Act. Its purpose is to maintain smooth operations in a key industry that supports the country’s energy supply and industrial stability. The declaration seeks to protect crucial services and reduce those disruptions that can affect public safety and economic continuity.