Dhanbad, Feb 6:
Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Thursday urged leaders from industry and academia to focus on smart and sustainable mining, especially for mineral-rich states like Jharkhand.
The Governor was inaugurating the Industry–Institute Interaction–2026 (III–2026), also known as Vasantotsav, on Smart Mining and Critical Minerals at IIT (ISM), Dhanbad, in the late afternoon. He highlighted the strategic importance of critical minerals for renewable energy, electric mobility, electronics and defence sectors, and called for intensified research and indigenous technological development.
Describing the conclave as a meaningful convergence of knowledge, research, industry and policymaking, Gangwar expressed hope that the deliberations at III–2026 would guide India’s journey towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat. He also stressed the need for environmentally responsible mining practices that protect community interests.
Top policymakers, industry leaders, scientists and academicians from across the country are participating in the two-day conclave.
Earlier, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT (ISM), welcomed the guests and highlighted the institute’s century-long legacy in the mining, minerals and energy sectors. He said that strong industry–institute collaboration is essential to address emerging technological challenges and to translate research into real-world applications. He expressed confidence that III–2026 would catalyse innovation, strengthen partnerships and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Asit Saha, Director General of the Geological Survey of India, spoke about India’s intensified efforts to secure critical minerals. He noted that extensive exploration initiatives are underway across the country and emphasized the importance of focused research, supportive policies, value-chain development and urban mining to ensure long-term mineral security for advanced technologies and economic growth.
Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Chairman and Managing Director of BCCL, highlighted the transformative role of smart mining, digitalisation and green energy in achieving the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Vivekanand Pai of Vijnana Bharati underlined the crucial role of academic and research institutions in bridging theory and practice through strong engagement with industry.
MoUs signed
On the occasion, MoUs were signed for collaboration with GIREDMET (Russia), Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), Aarav Unmanned Systems Private Limited (Aereo), Reactore, Skill Council for Mining Sector (SCMS), Deepak Mining Solutions Limited and RESCMM Solutions.
An official said the MoUs aim to promote research, digital mining solutions, aerial intelligence in mining, skill development and sustainable technologies for critical minerals.