Union Minister Launches ‘NIRMAN’ Portal to Support UPSC Aspirants from Coal India Districts

New Delhi: Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, today launched the “Noble Initiative for Rewarding Mains Aspirants of National Civil Services Examination (NIRMAN)” portal in New Delhi. This unique CSR scheme by Coal India Limited (CIL) aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Mission Karmayogi” vision and aims to support meritorious youth from its operational districts who have qualified the Preliminary round of the UPSC examination (for Civil Services & Forest Service) in 2024.

The launch event saw the presence of Secretary, Ministry of Coal, Amrit Lal Meena, senior officers from the Coal Ministry, and CMDs of Coal Companies.

The NIRMAN scheme offers financial support of Rs 1,00,000/- (Rupees One Lakh) to candidates who have cleared the Preliminary examination, provided they have an annual family income of less than Rs 8 lakhs and belong to the Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, female, or third gender categories. Eligible candidates must also be permanent residents of any of the 39 operational districts of CIL.

The application process is entirely digital, conducted through a dedicated portal to ensure full transparency and seamless screening, embodying the “Digital India” dream championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

CIL, a Maharatna company and a crucial component of India’s energy security, also plays a significant role as a socially responsible corporate entity, fostering education in coal-bearing areas. This initiative is part of CIL’s broader commitment to the vision of “Viksit Bharat” by promoting inclusive growth through “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas.”

In addition to the NIRMAN scheme, Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries have undertaken various initiatives to help deserving and underprivileged students from coal-bearing areas secure admissions into nationally reputed professional institutes, furthering their educational and professional aspirations.

G Kishan Reddy, speaking at the launch, emphasized the importance of this initiative in empowering youth and supporting their aspirations. “This scheme not only provides financial assistance but also encourages our young minds to strive for excellence in civil services, contributing to the nation’s development,” he said.