TEXMiN Foundation (Technology Translation Research Park, Department of Science & Technology, Government of India), Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad, in collaboration with Vijnana Bharati, and CSIR–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR), organised the Industry–Institute Interaction 2026 (III–2026) Conclave and Exhibition on February 6-7, 2026, at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad. The conclave was themed “Smart Mining, Critical Minerals, and Green Energy: Need for Atmanirbhar Bharat,” and was held as part of the centenary celebrations of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
The conclave was inaugurated by Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Hon’ble Governor of Jharkhand, as Chief Guest, and witnessed participation from senior leadership across government, industry, academia, and global research institutions. Over the two days, the programme featured high-level thematic keynote sessions on Critical Minerals, Smart Mining, and Green Energy Transitions, alongside an exhibition showcasing advanced mining technologies, digital solutions, and sustainability-led innovations.
A key highlight of III–2026 was the inauguration of a dedicated exhibition showcasing smart mining technologies, digital and geospatial solutions, drone-led intelligence, advanced communication systems, and green energy applications, alongside pre-inaugural distinguished remarks and high-level interactions with senior leaders from Indian and international organisations, including participation from Russia and the United Kingdom. The discussions also emphasised the role of advanced digital infrastructure such as 5G-enabled private networks, artificial intelligence, and data-driven systems in enabling safer, smarter, and more sustainable mining operations. The conclave concluded with a valedictory session reaffirming long-term commitments towards industry–institute collaboration, technology translation, and capacity building, reinforcing TEXMiN’s role as a national catalyst for innovation in smart mining, critical minerals, and green energy.
A major part of III–2026 was the Exchange of Flagship Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) led by TEXMiN, aimed at fostering long-term collaborations across smart mining, digital infrastructure, advanced communication systems, skill development, sustainability, and innovation-driven capacity building. The detailed scope and objectives of each partnership will be finalised through mutually agreed implementation frameworks.
The MoU Signing Ceremony was held in the august presence of Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, Chief Executive Officer, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Government of India, underscoring the national importance of collaborative research, translational innovation, and industry-led impact within India’s evolving R&D and innovation ecosystem.
“The two-day III–2026 Conclave brought together senior policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, academicians, and technology innovators on a common platform to deliberate on strengthening India’s mining and minerals ecosystem. The discussions around smart technologies, critical mineral security, sustainability, and green energy transitions reaffirmed the importance of deep industry–institute collaboration. Such engagements are vital for advancing India’s self-reliance and driving innovation-led growth in strategically critical sectors,” said Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman, Hub Governing Board, TEXMiN Foundation
Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, Project Director, TEXMiN, added, “III–2026 reflects a collective commitment to translating research into real-world impact. The conclave has successfully connected policy vision, industrial capability, and academic excellence, while the MoUs exchanged during the event will accelerate technology deployment, skill development, and sustainable mining practices. This collaborative momentum is essential for building a future-ready mining ecosystem aligned with the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
The exchanged MoUs include collaborations between:
●TEXMiN and Joint Stock Company “State Research and Design Institute of Rare Metal Industry” (GIREDMET, JSC), Russia, represented by the Director of the Chemical Technology Unit of Rosatom Science, to advance cooperation in rare metals and critical mineral technologies.
● TEXMiN and Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), a Government of India enterprise, focusing on digital connectivity and advanced communication solutions for mining and infrastructure.
● TEXMiN and Aarav Unmanned Systems Private Limited (Aereo) for establishing the Centre of Excellence for Aerial Intelligence in Mining & Infrastructure (CoE–AeroMine) at TEXMiN, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
● TEXMiN and Reactore for setting up the Centre of Excellence for Digital Planning and Smart Operations in Mining (CoE–DPSOM) at TEXMiN, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
● TEXMiN and partners for the Skill Council for Mining Sector (SCMS) to strengthen skill development and human capital for the mining sector.
●TEXMiN and Deepak Mining Solutions Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Deepak Fertilizers and Petrochemical Corporation Limited (DFPCL), to support smart mining and operational excellence initiatives.
●TEXMiN and RESCMM Solutions, focusing on sustainability, responsible mining practices, and technology deployment.
Through focused discussions, technology showcases, and strategic partnerships, the III–2026 Conclave reinforced TEXMiN’s role as a national catalyst for technology translation and industry-led research, contributing to India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in smart mining, critical minerals, and green energy.