IIT Hyderabad to Take Up Critical Mineral Exploration in Rajasthan
On December 13, 2025, during the Pravasi Rajasthani Divas held at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre, the Rajasthan government signed a significant memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology-Hyderabad (IIT-H). This partnership is valued at Rs 8.5 crore and aims to enhance mineral exploration in the state through advanced technology.
Objectives of the MoU
The primary goal of this collaboration is to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)-based predictive system designed to identify critical and strategic minerals across Rajasthan. The project seeks to position Rajasthan as a leader in the field of mineral intelligence and exploration technologies.
Key Figures Involved
The MoU was finalized in the presence of notable figures including:
- Bhajanlal Sharma – Chief Minister of Rajasthan
- G Kishan Reddy – Union Minister of Coal and Mines
- Prof. B S Murty – Director of IIT Hyderabad
Phased Approach to Implementation
The project will be executed in four distinct phases over a period of 18 months. Each phase is designed to build a comprehensive understanding of the mineral landscape in Rajasthan. The phases include:
- Data Collection: Gathering geological, geochemical, geophysical, and multispectral satellite datasets from 39 districts.
- Model Development: Creating a predictive model that integrates the collected data to generate mineral prospectivity maps.
- Analytics and Dashboards: Developing district-wise analytics and data dashboards to visualize mineral potential.
- Decision Support Tools: Delivering decision-support tools to the Rajasthan State Mineral Exploration Trust to aid in exploration planning.
Significance of the Project
This initiative is crucial for several reasons:
- Mineral Development: It supports Rajasthan’s long-term mineral development strategy, focusing on critical resources such as lithium, copper, graphite, zinc, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements.
- Technological Advancement: The use of AI and ML techniques in geoscience is expected to create innovative tools that enhance mineral exploration capabilities.
- Global Leadership: By advancing exploration technologies, India aims to establish itself as a global leader in the field of mineral exploration.
Expert Insights
Prof. B S Murty, the Director of IIT Hyderabad, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership will bring IIT-H into the mainstream of India’s critical mineral and resource intelligence mission. By combining advanced AI/ML techniques with geoscience, we are creating tools that will help India become a global leader in exploration technologies.”
Potential Impact on Rajasthan
The implementation of this project is expected to have a significant positive impact on Rajasthan’s economy and resource management. By identifying and mapping critical minerals, the state can:
- Attract investments in mining and mineral processing.
- Enhance the sustainability of mineral extraction practices.
- Support local communities through job creation and economic development.
Future Prospects
As the project unfolds, it will be essential to monitor its progress and assess its outcomes. The successful implementation of AI and ML in mineral exploration could pave the way for similar initiatives across other states in India, potentially revolutionizing the country’s approach to resource management.
Conclusion
The collaboration between IIT Hyderabad and the Rajasthan government marks a significant step forward in the field of mineral exploration. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, this initiative aims to enhance Rajasthan’s mineral intelligence and contribute to India’s standing in global mineral exploration.
Note: This article is based on information available as of December 2025 and may be subject to updates as the project progresses.
