Record Participation Marks 79th IIM Annual Technical Meeting at IIT Hyderabad
Hyderabad has become the focal point for metallurgy and materials science as the 79th Annual Technical Meeting (ATM) of the Indian Institute of Metals (IIM) unfolds at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad. This significant event, which commenced on December 4, 2025, is attracting national and international experts in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and critical mineral technologies.
Overview of the Event
The ATM is a three-day event that opened with the International Conference on Advanced Materials and Critical Minerals for Energy Transition. This theme aligns with India’s ambitious goals for energy transition and technological advancement.
Record Participation and International Presence
This year’s ATM has set a new benchmark with the highest-ever participation recorded. Key highlights include:
- More than 1,400 abstract submissions for oral and poster presentations.
- Over 100 metallography micrographs showcased.
- Participants and speakers from countries including India, Australia, Japan, Germany, the USA, South Africa, and France.
- A major technical exhibition featuring advanced characterization equipment and manufacturing technologies from 45 institutes.
Inaugural Day Highlights
The opening day featured a series of plenary sessions and technical tracks, including:
- Plenary Talks: 24 plenary talks delivered across two parallel sessions.
- Advanced Materials Track: Covered themes such as alloy design, advanced energy materials, novel alloy processing, and quantum materials.
- Critical Minerals Track: Focused on mineral resources, beneficiation technologies, extraction processes, refining, and recycling of strategic metals.
Decarbonization and Critical Mineral Strategy
During the inaugural ceremony, Prof. B. S. Murty, the Director of IIT Hyderabad and President of IIM, emphasized the importance of material independence for India. He stated:
“The global imperative to decarbonize demands accelerated development of materials with superior functional properties and processing of critical minerals. The future of technologically self-reliant India hinges on our ability to master the complete life-cycle of critical elements, from responsible sourcing and advanced beneficiation to sophisticated materials processing and next-generation manufacturing technologies.”
Industry Perspective: Sustainable and Efficient Processes
Dr. Komal Kapoor, Senior Vice-President of IIM and Chairman and Managing Director of Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC), addressed the intensifying demands for materials driven by national priorities. He remarked:
“The urgency in intensifying material demands for energy transition, strategic national needs and sustainable requirements is clear. The future of metallurgical industries will be defined by sustainable production and technological integration. The success hinges on embracing energy-efficient processes, reducing waste, and utilizing renewable materials.”
Speaker Selection and Scientific Direction
Dr. Tata Narasinga Rao, Vice Chancellor of Sri Venkateswara University (SVU), Tirupati, and Co-Convenor of IIM ATM 2025, provided insights into the selection process for distinguished speakers. He elaborated on the rigorous procedures followed to ensure a diverse representation of expertise across all areas of advanced materials and critical minerals.
Government’s View on Critical Minerals
Chief Guest N. Balaram highlighted the strategic importance of critical materials in India’s energy sector. He discussed:
- The role of critical materials in energy production.
- Government initiatives aimed at strengthening domestic production of critical minerals.
Platform for Knowledge Exchange and Collaboration
Prof. K. Bhanu Sankara Rao, Convenor of IIM ATM 2025 and Professor of Practice at IIT Hyderabad, noted that the event serves as a platform for collaboration among stakeholders in India’s material ecosystem. He stated:
“The event serves as a platform to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among leading industry experts, researchers, academicians, and thought leaders. The future of technological growth of India to realize ‘Atmanirbar Bharat’ depends on our ability to master the life cycle of critical elements, consisting of sourcing, beneficiation, materials processing, and next-generation manufacturing technologies.”
He added that discussions are being led by subject experts from several countries across all major areas of the conference.
Conclusion
As the 79th IIM Annual Technical Meeting progresses, the discussions taking place at IIT Hyderabad underscore India’s increasing focus on advanced materials, sustainable technologies, and critical minerals. With record participation and contributions from global experts, the event continues to reinforce India’s expanding role in materials research and technological self-reliance.
Note: This article is based on the latest updates from the 79th IIM Annual Technical Meeting and highlights the significance of the event in the context of India’s energy transition and material independence.
