New Delhi: Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the Coal India Limited (CIL) pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 on Tuesday. The pavilion highlights CIL’s expanding focus on critical mineral acquisition, advanced mining technologies, and sustainable practices, showcasing India’s progress in energy security and industrial modernization.
The IITF 2025, organised at Pragati Maidan from November 14–27, provides a national platform for companies to display innovations, strategic initiatives, and technological advancements across various sectors.
Strategic Focus on Critical Minerals
The pavilion prominently showcases CIL’s initiatives to acquire key critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt, both domestically and internationally. According to the Coal Ministry, these measures aim to reduce India’s import dependency on vital resources essential for industries like electric vehicles, batteries, electronics, and renewable energy.
“This approach supports the growth of industries reliant on these minerals and strengthens India’s resource security,” the ministry said.
Technological Advancements in Mining
CIL is highlighting several state-of-the-art mining technologies at the pavilion, including:
- Opencast mining methods
- Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in mining operations
- Functioning of Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) across CIL subsidiaries
The ministry noted that AI-driven systems are enhancing operational efficiency, monitoring, and safety compliance across mines, reflecting CIL’s commitment to modernizing India’s mining sector.
Virtual Reality for Safety and Training
A key feature of the pavilion is a live Virtual Reality (VR) demonstration, designed to provide immersive safety and operational training. The ministry emphasized that VR technology offers a safe, cost-effective, and engaging alternative to traditional training methods in hazardous mining environments. This initiative highlights CIL’s efforts to combine innovation with workforce safety.
Sustainability, CSR, and Eco-Tourism Initiatives
- Initiatives under the coal gasification mission, supporting cleaner coal technologies
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts in local communities
- Eco-tourism projects aimed at ecological restoration and awareness
The pavilion also showcases CIL’s dedication to sustainable mining practices and environmental restoration. Key highlights include:
These initiatives reflect the company’s broader commitment to environmentally responsible and socially inclusive growth.
India’s Industrial and Energy Progress on Display
The CIL pavilion at IITF 2025 is part of a larger effort to demonstrate India’s progress in energy security, technological adoption, and sustainable industrial practices. The exhibition offers a platform for industry-government collaboration, fostering innovation and awareness about India’s energy and mining advancements.
About CIL
Coal India Limited (CIL) is India’s state-owned coal mining enterprise, founded in 1975, and is currently the world’s largest coal producer. As a Maharatna public sector company under the Ministry of Coal, CIL plays a crucial role in India’s energy security by supplying a significant portion of the country’s coal. The company operates numerous mines across eight Indian states, manages several subsidiary companies, and has a vision to achieve sustainable growth as a global energy leader.
