N. Franklin Jayakumar Appointed NCL CMD, Set to Lead Northern Coalfields till May 2031 – Indian PSU

The Government of India has formally approved the appointment of N. Franklin Jayakumar, currently Director (Technical) at South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL), as the new Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL).

The Ministry of Coal communicated the Presidential approval to Coal India Limited in an order dated September 7, 2026, bringing the appointment process to its formal conclusion.

According to the order, Franklin Jayakumar will take charge as CMD, NCL from the date he assumes office. His appointment will remain effective up to May 31, 2031, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

Jayakumar takes over at a critical time for the coal sector, with NCL playing a key role in supplying coal to the power sector. His priorities are expected to include boosting coal production and dispatch, improving operational efficiency, strengthening mine safety and advancing sustainable mining practices.

A major subsidiary of Coal India Limited, NCL operates across the Singrauli coalfield and is among the country’s important coal producers. Under Jayakumar’s leadership, the company is expected to further strengthen its production and dispatch capabilities while maintaining focus on safety, technology and sustainable growth.