In a significant step toward strengthening India’s mineral and metals ecosystem, the Research and Development Centre of NMDC Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT Hyderabad). The partnership aims to deepen academic–industry collaboration and accelerate the development of indigenous technologies in mining and mineral processing. The agreement was formalised by Sanjeev Sahi, Executive Director (R&D), NMDC, and the Dean (Sponsored Research & Consultancy), IIT Hyderabad, in the presence of Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad.
Advancing Indigenous Mineral Processing Technologies
Through this collaboration, NMDC and IIT Hyderabad will jointly drive research across critical areas of the mineral and metals value chain.
Key focus areas include:
*Iron ore beneficiation and agglomeration
*Green steelmaking technologies
*Alternative iron-making processes using domestic raw materials
*Advanced modelling and simulation of mining and metallurgical processes
Both institutions are combining academic research excellence with industry-scale operational expertise. They aim to fast-track innovation and enhance India’s self-reliance in mineral technologies.
Focus on Critical and Rare Earth Minerals
Importantly, the MoU also prioritises research in the extraction of critical and rare earth minerals from both primary and secondary sources. This initiative aligns with India’s broader objective of strengthening mineral security and improving resource resilience. As global competition intensifies for access to strategic minerals, the partnership will support sustainable extraction methods and reduce import dependence.
Driving Digital Transformation in Mining
In addition to conventional mineral research, the collaboration will actively support digital transformation in the mining sector. By integrating digital tools with mining operations, NMDC and IIT Hyderabad seek to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Leadership Perspective
Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman and Managing Director of NMDC Limited, stated that the agreement reinforces the company’s commitment to fostering innovation. He added that NMDC will pursue this goal through strong industry–academia partnerships. He emphasized that leveraging IIT Hyderabad’s advanced research capabilities alongside NMDC’s extensive field experience will accelerate the development of indigenous technologies. Ultimately, this collaboration is expected to contribute to long-term growth, technological self-reliance, and enhanced competitiveness in India’s mining and metals sector. As reported by knnindia.co.in, NMDC and IIT Hyderabad are bringing together research excellence and operational expertise. The collaboration is setting the stage for transformative advancements in mineral processing, critical minerals extraction, and next-generation mining technologies.
