JNARDDC’s new partnership to help India tap critical minerals
The signing, held during the centre's 36th foundation day celebration, signals a strong move towards innovation, knowledge sharing, and self-reliance in critical mineral technologies.
"This partnership is a game-changer," said Anupam Agnihotri, director, JNARDDC. "We are expanding beyond aluminium to support the national mission on critical minerals. Through this MoU, we aim to jointly address challenges and harness opportunities in strategic materials that will drive the country's energy and technological future."
The day's theme ‘Unveiling the Power of Critical Minerals for the Next Generation' set the tone for a high-powered technical session, which brought together experts from JNARDDC, Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd (MECL), Atomic Minerals Directorate (AMD), CSIR-NIIST, and Nagpur University. Upendra Singh, head, analytical division, JNARDDC, coordinated the session.Jai Prakash Dwivedi, CMD, Western Coalfields Ltd (WCL), who graced the event as chief guest, praised the centre's efforts to link research with national priorities. "Institutions like JNARDDC must take the lead in bridging research with industrial needs, particularly in coal testing, mineral beneficiation, and sustainability," he said.Guest of honour Anil Kumar Singh, director (technical), WCL, also applauded the centre's future-centric vision. "Inter-institutional cooperation is not a luxury anymore, it's a necessity. JNARDDC is a model for how focused research can align with national growth," he remarked.Adding his perspective, SK Adhikari, chief mining geologist, WCL, said, "I am impressed with the Centre's continuous efforts in scientific innovation. Their work will play a crucial role in the emerging mineral economy."The technical session saw lively participation from scientists and academicians, all echoing the urgent need to secure India's critical mineral base in a geopolitically shifting world. The presence of researchers from across departments added a vibrant academic flavour to the session.Celebrating in-house excellence, the JNARDDC Technical Awards were presented to several staff members for their remarkable contributions in research projects, patents, and publications. A moment of cheer lit up the hall when GB Bhaskar, AAO (accounts), was conferred with the ‘Employee of the Year 2024-25" award for his committed service.What's in the MOU?* JNARDDC is a national centre working on aluminium research, recycling, and mineral processing* CSIR-NIIST specialises in advanced materials, sustainable technologies, and applied sciencesBoth are experts in mineral science and innovation crucial for India's tech and energy needs* The MoU will allow joint research on critical minerals used in smartphones, solar panels, and e-vehicles* It will help develop eco-friendly, cost-effective technologies for mineral extraction and processing* This is crucial for India's goal of becoming self-reliant in key resources needed for a greener future
- Published On Apr 26, 2025 at 08:50 AM IST
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