The Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS), under the Ministry of Labour & Employment, Government of India, celebrated its 125th Foundation Day today at its Headquarters in Dhanbad, Jharkhand, marking more than a century of dedicated service towards ensuring safety, health and welfare of mine workers across the country.The event was graced by the Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje, as the Chief Guest. Director General, DGMS, Shri Ujjwal Tah, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment, Smt. Deepika Kachhal, along with other senior officers of DGMS, officers from the Ministry, representatives of the mining industry and stakeholders from across the sector were also present at the event.

Addressing the gathering, Minister of State for Labour & Employment, Sushri Shobha Karandlaje noted that the 125-year journey of DGMS reflects the dedicated efforts and sacrifices of generations of officials and mine workers. Acknowledging the contribution of those who have worked under challenging conditions in the past, the Minister emphasised that mining activities today are directly linked to India’s growth story. The Minister paid tribute to mine workers whose courage and dedication, often involving grave risks to life, make mining possible and support nation-building.

The Minister reiterated that workers’ safety is the Ministry’s foremost priority, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “First Safety.” She highlighted the role of DGMS in ensuring uniform safety standards across all mining operations and stressed the need for coordinated Central–State efforts and stronger engagement of DGMS regional offices to effectively enforce safety norms.

Highlighting the relevance of labour reforms, Sushri Karandlaje noted that the four Labour Codes, which consolidated and replaced 29 laws, are aimed at building a Viksit Bharat and ensuring social security, including for contractual workers. She urged DGMS to promote awareness of the Codes and leverage modern technologies to enhance mine safety, assuring full support from the Ministry to strengthen DGMS for safer and more sustainable mining.

The Minister visited the Exhibition, Old Records Section and Models Gallery, showcasing the rich legacy and evolution of mines safety practices in India. As part of the celebrations, dignitaries undertook a plantation drive, reaffirming DGMS’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

A short film depicting the historical milestones of DGMS, its regulatory framework and technological advancements in mines safety was screened during the programme. On the occasion, the Minister of State for Labour & Employment released the new DGMS Logo which replaces the old one. She also released the DGMS Theme Song, and a digital Coffee Table Book capturing the organisation’s journey and contributions. A Souvenir/Digital Compendium of Best Practices in mines safety was also released.

In a significant gesture recognising bravery and service, Rescue Team Members were felicitated for their exemplary contribution in safeguarding miners’ lives during emergencies.

DGMS, established in 1902, continues to play a vital role in regulating mines safety and health standards in India, contributing significantly to the well-being of mine workers and the sustainable growth of the mining industry.

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Rini Choudhury/Anjelina Alexander