III–2026 Conclave at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad Marks Signing of Seven MoUs to Strengthen Smart Mining and Critical Minerals Ecosystem

The III–2026 Conclave held at the Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad on February 10, 2026, marked a significant milestone in the advancement of smart mining and critical minerals ecosystems in India. The event was inaugurated by Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, the Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand, and was attended by senior leaders from government, industry, academia, and global research institutions.

Overview of the Conclave

The conclave, organized by the TEXMiN Foundation (Technology Translation Research Park, Department of Science & Technology, Government of India) in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad, Vijnana Bharati, and CSIR–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), was themed “Smart Mining, Critical Minerals, and Green Energy: Need for Atmanirbhar Bharat.” This event was part of the centenary celebrations of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.

Key Highlights

The two-day program featured:

• High-level thematic keynote sessions on Critical Minerals, Smart Mining, and Green Energy Transitions.
• An exhibition showcasing advanced mining technologies, digital solutions, and sustainability-led innovations.
• Inauguration of a dedicated exhibition focused on smart mining technologies, drone-led intelligence, advanced communication systems, and green energy applications.

Significance of the MoUs

A major highlight of the III–2026 Conclave was the signing of seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering long-term collaborations across various sectors, including smart mining, digital infrastructure, and sustainability. The MoU Signing Ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, Chief Executive Officer of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), underscoring the national importance of collaborative research and industry-led impact.

Objectives of the Conclave

The primary objectives of the conclave included:

• Strengthening India’s mining and minerals ecosystem.
• Promoting deep industry-institute collaboration.
• Advancing technology translation and capacity building.
• Enhancing digital infrastructure in mining operations.

Statements from Key Officials

Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman of the Hub Governing Board of TEXMiN Foundation, stated, “The two-day III–2026 Conclave brought together senior policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, academicians, and technology innovators on a common platform to deliberate on strengthening India’s mining and minerals ecosystem.”

Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director of TEXMiN, added, “III–2026 reflects a collective commitment to translating research into real-world impact. The conclave has successfully connected policy vision, industrial capability, and academic excellence.”

Details of the Signed MoUs

The exchanged MoUs include collaborations between:

• TEXMiN and Joint Stock Company “State Research and Design Institute of Rare Metal Industry” (GIREDMET, JSC), Russia: Focused on advancing cooperation in rare metals and critical mineral technologies.
• TEXMiN and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL): Aiming to enhance digital connectivity and advanced communication solutions for mining and infrastructure.
• TEXMiN and Aarav Unmanned Systems Private Limited (Aereo): Establishing the Centre of Excellence for Aerial Intelligence in Mining & Infrastructure (CoE–AeroMine) at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
• TEXMiN and Reactor: Setting up the Centre of Excellence for Digital Planning and Smart Operations in Mining (CoE–DPSOM) at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
• TEXMiN and Skill Council for Mining Sector (SCMS): Strengthening skill development and human capital for the mining sector.
• TEXMiN and Deepak Mining Solutions Limited: Supporting smart mining and operational excellence initiatives.
• TEXMiN and RESCMM Solutions: Focusing on sustainability, responsible mining practices, and technology deployment.

Conclusion

Through focused discussions, technology showcases, and strategic partnerships, the III–2026 Conclave reinforced TEXMiN’s role as a national catalyst for technology translation and industry-led research. This event contributes significantly to India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in the domains of smart mining, critical minerals, and green energy.

Note: The information presented in this article is based on the events and announcements made during the III–2026 Conclave at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.