New Delhi: State-run mining giant NMDC Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad to strengthen research and academic collaboration aimed at advancing indigenous technologies in India’s mineral and metals sector.
The agreement was signed between NMDC’s R&D Centre and IIT Hyderabad in the presence of IITH Director B. S. Murty. The partnership aims to combine NMDC’s field expertise with IIT Hyderabad’s academic and research excellence to drive innovation in mining and mineral processing.
Focus on Iron Ore Beneficiation and Green Steelmaking
Under the MoU, both institutions will undertake joint research in critical areas including:
- Iron ore beneficiation and agglomeration
- Green steelmaking technologies
- Alternate ironmaking using indigenous raw materials
- Advanced modelling and simulation of mining and metallurgical processes
The collaboration is expected to support sustainable mining practices and promote the development of environmentally responsible steel production technologies.
Read also: NMDC Raises Iron Ore Prices: Baila Lump ₹4,700/tonne, Fines ₹4,000/tonne from Feb 10
Strengthening India’s Mineral Security
A key highlight of the partnership is research on extraction of critical and rare earth minerals from both primary and secondary sources. This initiative is aligned with India’s broader goal of enhancing mineral security and reducing dependence on imports.
By leveraging academic innovation and operational expertise, the collaboration aims to build a resilient and self-reliant mineral ecosystem.
Embracing Digital Transformation in Mining
The MoU also supports the digital transformation of the mining sector through research in emerging domains such as:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Autonomous vehicle operations
- Mining 4.0 frameworks
- Drone-based surveying and monitoring
These initiatives are expected to modernize mining operations, improve efficiency, and enhance safety standards across the sector.
Leadership Statement
Speaking on the occasion, NMDC Chairman and Managing Director Amitava Mukherjee said the collaboration reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation through industry-academia partnerships. He emphasized that combining IIT Hyderabad’s research excellence with NMDC’s operational strength will help develop sustainable, technology-driven solutions while contributing to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
About NMDC
NMDC Limited is India’s largest iron ore producer and a Navratna public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Steel. The company plays a key role in India’s mining sector with operations across major mineral-rich states and is actively expanding into green steel, critical minerals, and sustainable mining technologies to support the country’s industrial growth.
Read also: NMDC Empowers Bastar Youth with 100% Job Placement Through Skill Development Initiative
