The National Centre RUSSIA congratulates on Miner’s Day

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Miner's Day is celebrated annually in Russia on the last Sunday in August; this year it fell on the 31st. The holiday was officially established in September 1947, at the initiative of Dmitry Onik, Minister of the Coal Industry of the Western Regions of the USSR, and Alexander Zasyadko, Minister of the Coal Industry of the Eastern Regions of the USSR.

In our country, miners’ work is held in special esteem, as coal remains a strategically important resource, and miners risk their lives every day to extract it.

"The coal industry has always been and remains the economic foundation of the Kemerovo region. Over one hundred thousand people work here. We produce nearly half of Russia’s 'black gold'. We supply heat and power to metallurgy, mechanical engineering, the chemical sector and the social sphere," stated Governor of Kemerovo Region Ilya Seredyuk to a press office of the National Centre RUSSIA.

The head of the region highlighted that, like many other industries, the mining sector has faced sanctions and logistical challenges.

"We have already overcome more than one crisis, and we will overcome this one too. Today, it is vital to preserve the results achieved and continue moving forward. We are focused on seeking new mining technologies, ensuring labour safety and deep coal processing. This will help us stay prepared for any challenges," continued Ilya Seredyuk. "I thank all miners for their professionalism and their contribution to the industrial development of the region and Russia as a whole. Wishing you health, well‑being and success in all your endeavours. Happy physical work holiday, and congratulations on Miner’s Day!" 

Mining in Russia

The origins of mining in Russia date back to the 15th century, with the first mineral exploration expedition launched in the Pechora region in 1491. However, the industry received significant development under Peter the Great, who established the "Mining Affairs Department" in 1700, laying the foundation for a national industry.

During the reign of Nicholas I, intensive geological surveys and technical modernisation of the coal sector began. Despite lagging behind leading countries in 1860, by 1900 coal production had increased thirty-eight-fold. This allowed Russia to move into eighth place globally, surpassing many industrialised nations.

In the 1930s, Soviet mining engineering and industry science were established. Designers created powerful coal-cutting and loading machinery, greatly mechanising miners’ labour. Key scientific institutes were founded in Moscow. During the Great Patriotic War, miners worked selflessly and also served on the battlefront.

The Stakhanov movement became a major social phenomenon. Initiated in 1932 by Nikita Izotov, it gained momentum after Alexey Stakhanov exceeded the coal production norm by fourteen times in 1935. This mass competition helped double labour productivity in the industry.

From the 1950s onward, the USSR experienced a forty-year "golden age" of coal. In 1958, the country became the world’s leading coal producer and maintained this position until 1979. In 1988, the all-time record of 772 million tonnes was reached, placing the USSR third after China and the USA.

This growth was driven by a scientific and technological revolution in mining, alongside the creation of massive coal open-pit mines within new energy complexes, spurring the development of open-pit mining methods.

Today, coal industry remains critically important to the economy of Siberia and the Far East, serving as the backbone of over 30 towns with a combined population exceeding 1.5 million.

For many coal towns and districts, Miner’s Day coincides with City Day and is celebrated as the main holiday with folk fairs, concerts, and fireworks.

The Kuznetsk Coal Basin is featured in the "Journey Across Russia" exposition as part of the Siberian federal district. It is the heart of Russian coal industry, supplying energy and raw materials for heavy industry. The basin holds 75% of the country’s coal reserves — over 89 billion tonnes — enough for approximately 500 years of production.

Guided tours of the "Journey Across Russia" exposition are free with advance registration. All details are available on the National Centre RUSSIA website in the "Events" section.