Two-Day National Conference on Critical Minerals Kicks Off at IIT-ISM Dhanbad
Dhanbad, October 13, 2025 – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Indian School of Mines (ISM) Dhanbad is hosting a significant national conference titled “Critical Metals: Recycling, Innovation, Separation and Processing (CRISP-2025).” The event, inaugurated by Niti Aayog member V K Saraswat, aims to address the pressing need for sustainable practices in the extraction, processing, and recycling of critical minerals.
Importance of Critical Minerals
Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements play a vital role in the transition to clean energy and the development of high-tech industries. As the global market for these minerals exceeds USD 400 billion, the need for India to establish a self-reliant ecosystem for their extraction and processing has become increasingly urgent.
Inaugural Address by V K Saraswat
During the inaugural address, V K Saraswat emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency in critical minerals for India’s green transition. He stated, “Achieving self-sufficiency in these resources is vital for sustaining India’s green transition and meeting future technological requirements.”
Technological Innovations and Strategies
Saraswat highlighted the role of advanced technologies in enhancing the efficiency of mineral extraction and processing. He proposed several strategies, including:
- Secondary resource valorization
- Solvent extraction
- Bioleaching
- AI-based process monitoring systems
He also suggested the establishment of dedicated pilot plants at IIT (ISM) and the introduction of specialized courses focused on critical mineral processing, aimed at developing skilled manpower for the industry.
Collaboration Between Industry and Academia
Saraswat called for stronger collaboration between industry and academia, stating, “We must transform laboratory innovations into industrial applications to strengthen the circular economy framework.” This collaboration is essential for fostering technological innovation and interdisciplinary research, which will position India as a global leader in critical minerals.
Director’s Perspective
IIT-ISM Director Sukumar Mishra echoed Saraswat’s sentiments, emphasizing the growing global significance of critical minerals in ensuring a sustainable energy future. He expressed pride in IIT (ISM) being designated as a Centre of Excellence in Critical Mineralisation. Furthermore, he announced the establishment of the India–UK Critical Minerals Observatory at the institute, a project recently unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Data-Driven Frameworks for Efficient Mineral Utilization
Drawing parallels between engineering control systems and critical mineral management, Mishra underscored the need for data-driven and adaptive frameworks to optimize mineral utilization. He urged researchers to take the lead in India’s clean energy transition through innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.
Conclusion
The CRISP-2025 conference serves as a platform for scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers to engage in meaningful discussions about sustainable strategies for critical minerals. As the world moves towards greener technologies, the importance of these resources cannot be overstated. The outcomes of this conference could significantly influence India’s approach to achieving self-reliance in critical minerals, ultimately supporting the nation’s transition to a sustainable energy future.
Note: The details provided in this article are based on the information available as of October 2023.
