The Industry–Institute Interaction–2026 (III–2026) (Vasantotsav) was inaugurated today at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad by the Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand, Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, at the Penman Auditorium. Organised under the theme “Smart Mining, Critical Minerals and Green Energy: Need for Atmanirbhar Bharat,” the two-day conclave has brought together policymakers, industry leaders, scientists and academicians to deliberate on technology-driven growth in the mining and energy sectors.
Welcoming the distinguished gathering, Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, highlighted the institute’s century-long legacy in mining, minerals and energy and its transformation into a comprehensive technological university.
He stressed that robust industry–institute collaboration is essential to address emerging technological challenges and to translate research into real-world impact. He expressed confidence that III–2026 would catalyse innovation, strengthen partnerships and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Addressing the conclave, Shri Asit Saha, Director General, Geological Survey of India, emphasized India’s intensified efforts in securing critical minerals, noting that extensive exploration initiatives are underway across the country.
He underlined the importance of focused research, enabling policy support, value-chain development and urban mining to ensure long-term mineral security vital for advanced technologies and economic growth.
Shri Manoj Kumar Agarwal, CMD, BCCL, spoke on the transformative role of smart mining, digitalisation and green energy in achieving the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. He observed that automation, artificial intelligence and advanced monitoring systems are making mining operations safer, cleaner and more efficient.
Stressing sustainable and technology-driven growth, he underscored the need for close collaboration between industry and academic institutions.
Shri Vivekanand Pai of Vijnana Bharati highlighted the crucial role of academic and research institutions in bridging theory and practice through strong industry engagement. He called for faster innovation in critical minerals, green energy and advanced mining technologies to enhance India’s global competitiveness.
Referring to India’s rich scientific heritage and significant untapped rare earth potential, he urged collective efforts to strengthen indigenous capabilities and build a technologically advanced, self-reliant mining sector.
In his inaugural address, the Hon’ble Governor, Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, described the conclave as a meaningful convergence of knowledge, research, industry and policymaking. Emphasising the relevance of smart and sustainable mining for mineral-rich states like Jharkhand, he called for environmentally responsible practices that safeguard community interests.
Highlighting the strategic importance of critical minerals for renewable energy, electric mobility, electronics and defence, he urged intensified research and indigenous technological development. He expressed confidence that the deliberations at III–2026 would guide India’s journey toward Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat.
Ahead of the inaugural session, several significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged through TEXMiN – the Technology Translation Research Park of IIT (ISM) – with leading national and international industry partners.
These included collaborations with GIREDEMET (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. The MoUs aim to advance research, digital mining solutions, aerial intelligence in mining, skill development and sustainable critical mineral technologies, further strengthening the institute’s industry engagement ecosystem.
The conclave will continue with thematic technical sessions and expert deliberations over the next two days, focusing on smart mining technologies, critical mineral strategies and green energy transitions.
