TEXMiN IIT Dhanbad Signs MoU with Madhya Pradesh on Mining

In a significant step towards shaping the future of India’s mining sector, TEXMiN, the Technology Translation Research Park, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Madhya Pradesh (Mineral Resources Department through the Directorate of Geology & Mining) and the Madhya Pradesh State Mining Corporation Limited (MPSMCL).

The MoU exchange took place during ‘Mining Conclave 2.0 - Shaping the Future of Mining’ in Katni, in the august presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Hon’ble In-charge Minister, Principal Secretary (Mineral Resources Department), and other distinguished leaders from the State Government and industry.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman of the Governing Board, TEXMiN, said, “This MoU marks a turning point in advancing India’s mining sector towards a future-ready, technology-driven, and sustainable ecosystem. The collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and MPSMCL will not only accelerate the adoption of safe, smart, and environmentally responsible mining practices but also serve as a model for the rest of the country. By combining our academic excellence, research capabilities, and technological innovations with the State’s rich mineral resources, we aim to create a mining framework that balances growth with sustainability. This initiative will play a pivotal role in positioning India as a global leader in responsible mining.”

Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director of TEXMiN, added, “Our collaboration with the Government of Madhya Pradesh and MPSMCL is designed to integrate frontier technologies such as AI, automation, GIS, and blockchain into every stage of the mining value chain. This is about more than efficiency; it is about transparency, inclusivity, and building long-term resilience. Through this partnership, we will develop pathways for data-driven exploration, optimize mineral utilization, and build capabilities for a skilled, future-ready workforce. At the same time, our emphasis on research and innovation will foster breakthrough solutions in clean energy and next-generation mining. Together, we envision a mining ecosystem that is digital, adaptive, and globally competitive while safeguarding environmental and social interests.”

The partnership is anchored around five core pillars that will redefine the mining landscape. At its core is Smart and Sustainable Mining, which focuses on deploying advanced technologies to enhance safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. Equally important is Transparency and Trust, aimed at building fair, accountable, and robust systems across the mining value chain. Through Resource Optimization, the collaboration seeks to unlock mineral wealth using data-driven exploration, planning, and utilization. A Future-Ready Workforce will be developed with expertise in critical minerals, renewable energy, and frontier technologies, while Innovation and Research Excellence will drive breakthrough solutions for next-generation mining and clean energy.