TEXMiN Signs LoI with University of Cambridge for Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory

TEXMiN, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad, has achieved a significant milestone by signing the prestigious Letter of Intent (LoI) with the University of Cambridge, UK, for establishing the Critical Minerals Supply Chain Satellite Observatory at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad. The signing took place on 8th October 2025 during the India–UK Critical Minerals Guild, in the presence of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, as part of the ongoing bilateral cooperation between India and the UK in the field of technology and critical minerals.

The LoI was signed by the Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Hon’ble Chairman, Hub Governing Board, TEXMiN, and Director, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad, marking the beginning of Phase II of the UK–India Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory, a global initiative led by the University of Cambridge’s Institute for Manufacturing (IfM) and supported by India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.

This collaboration represents a landmark advancement in the shared commitment of both nations to develop resilient, sustainable, and secure critical mineral supply chains. TEXMiN, as the Technology Innovation and Translation Research Park of IIT(ISM) Dhanbad, supported by DST, will serve as the lead implementing body for hosting and developing the Satellite Observatory in India. The observatory will enable cutting-edge research, data-driven analytics, and technology-led innovation for the global critical minerals value chain.

Continuing the momentum from the India–UK Critical Minerals Guild, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, held discussions on 9th October 2025 in Mumbai with The Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, to formally announce the establishment of the Critical Minerals Industry Guild and the Critical Minerals Supply Chain Observatory at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman, Hub Governing Board, TEXMiN, said, “This LoI with the University of Cambridge is a defining moment in India’s critical minerals journey. It reflects TEXMiN’s pivotal role in advancing India’s global leadership in sustainable and secure supply chains. The observatory will leverage advanced technologies such as AI, blockchain, and remote sensing to strengthen India’s capacity in mineral traceability, sustainability, and resource mapping.”

Adding to this, Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director, TEXMiN, stated, “This partnership exemplifies the power of global collaboration in addressing one of the most strategic challenges of our time, critical mineral security. The establishment of the satellite observatory at TEXMiN will not only accelerate research and innovation but also foster skill development and industry readiness, ensuring India remains at the forefront of this vital global supply chain.”

This initiative further cements TEXMiN’s position as India’s leading centre for technology translation and innovation in mining and mineral systems, aligning with the nation’s broader goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat, energy transition, and sustainable industrial development.

The Critical Minerals Satellite Observatory at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad will serve as a key enabler in data integration, cross-border research, and industry engagement, laying the foundation for a globally resilient critical minerals ecosystem that ensures secure, transparent, and circular value chains.