In a bold stride towards fortifying India’s critical mineral capabilities, TEXMiN Foundation, the Technology Innovation Hub of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the India Brazil Chamber of Commerce (IBCC). The inking ceremony, held at the Brazilian Embassy in New Delhi, was a high-profile affair, attended by the Brazilian Ambassador and other distinguished delegates. This alliance is not just a diplomatic handshake but a strategic move that aligns perfectly with the Government of India’s recently launched National Critical Mineral Mission. With an ambitious outlay of ₹34,300 crore over seven years, this mission aims to achieve self-reliance in critical minerals that are the lifeblood of green technologies.
Brazil, with its vast mineral wealth, is a natural partner for India in this endeavor. The South American giant is home to the world’s third-largest rare earth reserves, estimated at a staggering 21 million metric tons. Additionally, Brazil boasts significant deposits of niobium and graphite. However, despite these abundant resources, Brazil’s current production of rare earth elements is modest, presenting a golden opportunity for collaborative exploration and technological advancement.
The Brazilian Ambassador to India, Mr. Kenneth Félix Haczynski da Nóbrega, underscored the significance of this partnership, stating, “This partnership exemplifies the strengthening ties between Brazil and India, paving the way for collaborative advancements in critical mineral exploration that are vital for the future of sustainable technologies. We are confident that this agreement will not only help in resource development but also lead to the exchange of best practices, technical expertise, and sustainable mining methodologies that will benefit both nations.”
Guilherme Mota, Head of Business Development at IBCC, echoed this sentiment, adding, “By combining Brazil’s rich mineral resources with India’s technological expertise, we are setting the stage for groundbreaking projects that will benefit both nations and contribute to global supply chains. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovation, ensuring sustainable mining practices, and strengthening economic ties between India and Brazil. We look forward to co-developing solutions that will make mining more efficient, environmentally friendly, and aligned with global sustainability goals.”
The MoU between TEXMiN and IBCC is set to unlock substantial projects, with major industry players like Vale S.A. expected to be involved. The focus will be on joint research, technology development, and knowledge exchange. TEXMiN aims to explore technology projects with “Match Funding” mechanisms, in line with the Department of Science and Technology’s mandates, to foster innovation and sustainable practices in mineral exploration and mining.
Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director of TEXMiN, highlighted the strategic importance of this collaboration, saying, “This collaboration is a significant step towards achieving the objectives of India’s Critical Mineral Mission. By leveraging Brazil’s vast mineral reserves and our technological capabilities, we aim to develop innovative solutions that will drive the future of mining and exploration. This is not just about extraction but about creating a sustainable ecosystem where research, innovation, and responsible resource utilization go hand in hand. We foresee this partnership as a game-changer in how critical minerals are sourced and utilized for green technologies.”
Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman of TEXMiN, emphasized the broader implications of this alliance, stating, “Our alliance with IBCC marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards pioneering research and development in the mining sector. Together, we will explore new frontiers in critical mineral exploration, contributing to the global demand for sustainable resources. This initiative is not just about meeting industrial demand; it is about securing a greener future, reducing dependency on limited global suppliers, and positioning India as a leader in sustainable mining practices.”
Mr. Suraj Prakash, CEO of TEXMiN, added, “Engaging with international partners like IBCC enables us to harness global expertise and resources, fostering advancements in critical mineral technologies that are essential for sustainable development. This partnership will also open doors for capacity building, training programs, and academic collaborations between institutions in India and Brazil, strengthening the knowledge base for future generations of mineral explorers and engineers.”
This strategic partnership between TEXMiN and IBCC is a clear indication of the shared commitment to advancing critical mineral exploration and technology development. It reinforces the bilateral relations between India and Brazil and contributes to the global pursuit of sustainable and secure mineral supply chains. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and the transition to green technologies, such collaborations will be crucial in shaping the future of the mining sector.
The implications of this news are far-reaching. It challenges the traditional norms of mineral exploration and extraction, pushing for a more sustainable