The Industry-Institute Interaction 2025 (III-2025) Conclave, a collaborative effort between IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and the TEXMiN Foundation, has wrapped up, leaving a resounding impact on the mining and energy sectors. This event was more than just a gathering; it was a catalyst for change, driving home the importance of industry-academia collaboration in shaping the future of smart mining, critical minerals, and sustainable energy.
Dr. BVR Mohan Reddy, Founder Chairman & Board Member of Cyient and Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIT Hyderabad and IIT Roorkee, set the tone for the event. He emphasized that “Technology-driven advancements in mining and critical minerals are crucial for India’s economic and environmental sustainability.” This sentiment underscores the urgent need for innovation in the mining sector, which is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities.
The event was a hub of strategic collaborations and knowledge exchange. The Letter of Award presented to TEXMiN by Mr. Ajit Kumar Saxena, CMD, MOIL, for investment feasibility studies for manganese blocks under a joint venture with MOIL and Madhya Pradesh State Mining Corporation Limited, is a testament to the event’s tangible outcomes. This collaboration is poised to drive significant advancements in the mining sector, particularly in the realm of manganese extraction and processing.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between TEXMiN and Deepak Fertilisers – Deepak Mining further solidifies the commitment to advancing research-driven mining solutions. This partnership is expected to yield groundbreaking technologies that will not only enhance mining efficiency but also promote sustainability.
The panel discussions were a highlight of the event, delving into emerging trends in mining and energy. The session on Futuristic Mining Technology explored automation, digitalization, and sustainability. Experts in the field discussed the transformative potential of Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) in mining, showcasing innovations in IoT, AI, and automation.
The discussions on Critical Minerals provided a global perspective, examining India’s position and supply chain complementarities. This session was particularly insightful, as it highlighted the strategic importance of critical minerals in the global economy and India’s role in this landscape. The session on Net Zero Emissions addressed the urgent need for renewable energy, decarbonization, and corporate sustainability, setting the stage for a greener mining future.
Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT(ISM) Dhanbad & Chairman HGB, TEXMiN, emphasized the event’s success in supporting innovation through industry-academia collaboration. He remarked, “The III-2025 Workshop reflects our commitment towards supporting innovation through industry-academia collaboration. The discussions and partnerships formed here will play a pivotal role in transforming mining technologies and advancing India’s position in critical minerals and green energy solutions.”
Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Dy. Director IIT(ISM) Dhanbad & Project Director, TEXMiN, echoed this sentiment, stating, “At TEXMiN, we are dedicated to bridging technological gaps in the mining sector by leveraging AI, CPS, and sustainable energy solutions. The partnerships and collaborations initiated during III-2025 mark a significant step forward in realizing our vision of safe, smart, and sustainable mining.”
The technology transfer of a Shock tube initiator system to AMA Commercials (India) Private Limited for commercialization is another significant outcome. Developed by Prof Anupam Kher, VNIT, Nagpur, and AMA Commercial India Private Limited, under the Technology development project initiative of TEXMiN, this Technology is an ultra-safe and robust detonation technology for initiating any nonelectric detonation. This innovation is set to revolutionize mining safety and efficiency.
TEXMiN’s issuance of Letters of Comfort to leading institutions, including IIEST Shibpur, VNIT Nagpur, BIT Sindri, NIT Rourkela, and JUT, for the establishment of CPS Centers of Excellence (CoEs) further expands the network for knowledge exchange and technological development. Additionally, JUT (Jharkhand University of Technology) has been added as an outreach center, broadening the scope for innovation and collaboration.
The awarding of Term Sheets to promising newly incubated startups is a major boost to innovation in the mining sector. These startups are poised to bring fresh perspectives and cutting-edge technologies to the industry, driving forward the agenda of smart and sustainable mining.
The III-2025 Conclave has set a new benchmark for industry-academia collaboration in the mining sector. It has underscored the need for continuous innovation and the importance of strategic partnerships in driving the sector forward. As the mining industry grapples with the challenges of sustainability and technological advancement, events like III-20