Seven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were signed during the Industry–Institute Interaction 2026 (III–2026) Conclave and Exhibition, organised by TEXMiN Foundation at Indian Institute of Technology (ISM) Dhanbad, marking a significant step towards strengthening industry–academia collaboration in smart mining, critical minerals, and green energy. The two-day conclave was held on February 6–7, 2026, as part of the centenary celebrations of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad.
The conclave was inaugurated by Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Governor of Jharkhand, as the Chief Guest and witnessed participation from senior leadership across government, industry, academia and global research institutions. The event was organised in collaboration with Vijnana Bharati and CSIR–Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research.
Themed “Smart Mining, Critical Minerals, and Green Energy: Need for Atmanirbhar Bharat,” the conclave featured high-level keynote sessions and panel discussions on critical mineral security, digital transformation in mining, and green energy transitions. An accompanying exhibition showcased advanced mining technologies, drone-enabled intelligence systems, geospatial and digital solutions, advanced communication infrastructure, and sustainability-driven innovations. Delegations from international organisations, including representatives from Russia and the United Kingdom, also participated, adding a global dimension to the deliberations.
A major highlight of III–2026 was the MoU Signing Ceremony, held in the august presence of Shivkumar Kalyanaraman, CEO of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation, Government of India. The ceremony underscored the national importance of collaborative research, technology translation, and industry-led innovation within India’s evolving R&D ecosystem.
The MoUs exchanged during the conclave aim to foster long-term cooperation across smart mining, rare and critical minerals, advanced communication systems, aerial intelligence, digital planning, skill development, sustainability, and operational excellence. Among the key collaborations was an agreement between TEXMiN and GIREDMET JSC, Russia, to advance cooperation in rare metals and critical mineral technologies. Another MoU was signed with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited to strengthen digital connectivity and advanced communication solutions for mining and infrastructure.
TEXMiN also partnered with Aarav Unmanned Systems Private Limited (Aereo) to establish the Centre of Excellence for Aerial Intelligence in Mining and Infrastructure (CoE–AeroMine), and with Reactore to set up the Centre of Excellence for Digital Planning and Smart Operations in Mining (CoE–DPSOM) at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad. Additional MoUs were signed with partners of the Skill Council for Mining Sector to strengthen human capital development, with Deepak Mining Solutions Limited for smart mining initiatives, and with RESCMM Solutions focusing on responsible mining and sustainability.
Speaking on the occasion, Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman of the TEXMiN Hub Governing Board, said the conclave brought together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and academicians on a common platform to deliberate on strengthening India’s mining and minerals ecosystem. He emphasised that discussions on smart technologies, sustainability, and critical mineral security are vital for advancing India’s self-reliance and innovation-led growth.
Echoing similar views, Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director of TEXMiN, said the conclave reflected a collective commitment to translating research into real-world impact. He noted that the MoUs exchanged during III–2026 would accelerate technology deployment, skill development, and sustainable mining practices, helping build a future-ready mining ecosystem aligned with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The III–2026 Conclave concluded with a valedictory session reaffirming long-term commitments towards industry–institute collaboration, capacity building, and technology translation, reinforcing TEXMiN’s role as a national catalyst for innovation in smart mining, critical minerals, and green energy.
