VAML Coal Mines Backs Suravi 2026, Expands Platform for Young Talent
By Subrat Sarangi
Bhubaneswar, Nov. 3: VAML Coal Mines, a subsidiary of India’s largest aluminium producer, has supported the Cluster Level Suravi 2026 programme, an educational and cultural talent festival organised by the Government of Odisha for school students. The initiative was held across communities surrounding its Kuraloi, Jamkhani and Ghogharpalli coal mining operations.
The programme brought together more than 1,000 students, teachers and community members from over 30 schools across Hemgir and Lakhanpur blocks, providing young learners with an opportunity to showcase their talents beyond the classroom.
Held at Luabahal Higher Secondary School and Banjari Ashram School, the festival featured a wide range of academic, literary and cultural competitions, including quizzes, debates, essay writing, creative writing, mathematics races, drawing, painting, singing and dance.
Through participation and healthy competition, Suravi encouraged students to explore their interests, enhance their confidence and prepare for advancement to higher levels of the competition.
Speaking on the initiative, Amares Kumar, CEO of VAML Coal Mines, said, “Young people thrive when they are given the right opportunities to learn, participate and express themselves. Suravi creates an important platform for students to step beyond the classroom, showcase their abilities and gain confidence through new experiences. At VAML Coal Mines, we are committed to supporting such opportunities that enable children in our neighbouring communities to broaden their horizons and aspire for more.”
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Rajendra Prasad, Block Education Officer, Lakhanpur, said, “Suravi encourages students to explore their abilities beyond academics and grow through participation. Such platforms play an important role in nurturing confidence, creativity and well-rounded development. VAML Coal Mines’ support has helped widen access to these opportunities across rural communities.”
The initiative builds on VAML Coal Mines’ sustained efforts to expand educational opportunities for children in communities surrounding its operations.
More than 39,000 students have benefited from education-focused interventions under Project Vidya across the Kuraloi, Jamkhani and Ghogharpalli operations. The programme encompasses additional teaching support, learning resources and activities designed to encourage learning beyond the classroom.
VAML Coal Mines’ support for Suravi forms part of its broader commitment to strengthening education and creating opportunities for children and young people in its neighbouring communities.
The company’s community development initiatives have positively impacted more than two lakh people across 26 villages in Jharsuguda and Sundargarh districts, through interventions spanning education, healthcare, livelihoods and social development.
