The Department of Applied Geophysics, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad organised a Centenary Talk today at the Golden Jubilee Lecture Theatre (GJLT), delivered by Mr Mahesh G. Pimpramule, Associate Partner, KPMG
India, on the theme “Transforming India’s Mining Sector—Project Management Units, Policy and
Sustainable Operations.”

The lecture drew active participation from faculty members, researchers and students from across disciplines, including Applied Geophysics, Mining Engineering, Geology, Environmental Science and allied areas.

Prior to the lecture, Prof. Saumen Maiti, Head, Department of Applied Geophysics, welcomed Mr
Pimpramule and felicitated him with a bouquet. Prof. Sanjit Kumar Pal, Professor, Department of Applied
Geophysics, introduced the guest speaker by presenting his brief biosketch. Prof. Bhanwar Singh
Choudhary, Head, Department of Mining Engineering, was also present during the event.

In his centenary address, Mr Pimpramule presented a comprehensive overview of the evolving mining
ecosystem and the need for strategic, time-bound and sustainable approaches in the sector. His talk coveredGlobal and India’s Coal Mining Landscape, process flow of mine operationalisation, challenges in
modern mining operationalisation, and best global practices for achieving optimal outcomes.

Emphasising the role of structured implementation, he highlighted how Project Management Units (PMUs) can support effective monitoring, timely execution and improved accountability in mine development projects.

Referring to the international context, he noted that coal and critical minerals have gained renewed attention due to geopolitical disruptions and energy security concerns.

Speaking on India’s scenario, he underlined the country’s continuing dependence on coal for power generation and the ongoing push towards modernisation through safer and more sustainable mining practices, including emerging technologies.The programme also served as an important platform for interaction and industry–academia engagement.

Mr Pimpramule expressed interest in engaging with students and faculty members and discussed possibilities related to internships, placements and research collaborations with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.

Mr Mahesh G. Pimpramule is an accomplished mining professional with over 23 years of experience across reputed organisations including KPMG, Tata Steel and L&T Infotech. A VNIT Nagpur alumnus (Mining Engineering, 2002), he holds an MBA in Operations, a PG Diploma in Corporate Law, and is a Chartered Engineer.

He is widely recognised for his contributions in improving mine operationalisation timelines, policy
support for sustainable mining and integration of IT systems in mining operations, with professional exposure across multiple international locations.