MEAI Hyderabad Chapter Concludes National Conference on ‘Mining the Minerals: Way Forward Towards Atmanirbhar

Viksit Bharat 2047’//// Hyderabad, February 15, 2025: The Mining Engineers’ Association of India (MEAI), Hyderabad Chapter successfullyconcluded the two-day National Conference on ‘Mining the Minerals: Way Forward Towards Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047’. The second day featured a series of impactful deliberations on critical issues concerning the mining sector, itsfuture policies and technological advancements.The valedictory session was presided over by Shri V. Suresh, Director (Commercial), NMDC Ltd., who served as the ChiefGuest for the occasion. Shri N. Balram, Chairman & Managing Director, SCCL, was the Guest of Honour. Other

distinguished attendees included Shri B. Vishwanath, IRSS, Chief Vigilance Officer, NMDC Ltd.; Shri B. Surender Mohan,

Former CMD, NLC India Ltd.; Shri A. K. Shukla, Former CMD, HCL; and Shri P.K. Satpathy, Former Director (Production),NMDC Ltd. who contributed to discussions on mining innovation, sustainability, and policy reforms.

The second day of the conference commenced with expert discussions on the impact of the MMDR Act, amendments inroyalty structures, mining of minor minerals, and policy reforms shaping the sector’s future. Eminent speakers providedvaluable insights into the legal and economic implications of regulatory frameworks and the necessary interventions tofoster growth.Technical sessions focused on the extraction of manganese and bauxite from waste or low-grade ores, ammoniabeneficiation of low-grade iron ores and advancements in sustainable mining practices. Industry experts shared

innovations that could drive efficiency and sustainability in mineral processing.

Shri Vinay Kumar Director (Technical)NMDC Ltd. & Chairman MEAI Hyderabad Chapter in his concluding remarks

mentioned, “As we gather here at the conclusion of this remarkable national conference, I stand before you with aprofound sense of gratitude and optimism. Over the past one and a half days, we have engaged in deep discussions,shared transformative ideas, and collectively envisioned the future of India’s mining sector for Viksit Bharat 2047.As India approaches its 100th year of independence in 2047, the mining sector will play a pivotal role in driving self-

reliance and economic growth. The conference began with an inaugural session, where industry leaders laid a strong

foundation by emphasizing the need for policy reforms, increased exploration, sustainable mining, decarbonization, skill

development, and attracting young talent. While India has long been dominant in bulk minerals, our focus must now

expand to critical and minor minerals, where we lag behind many global economies. Without addressing this gap,achieving true mineral security will remain a challenge.The MEAI conference stressed key industry-wide concerns, such as the need for policy reforms, decarbonization,

automation, and AI-driven mining technologies. A significant point raised was the impact of "greenflation"—the risingcommodity prices caused by the green energy transition—and how we must strategically position ourselves to maintain a

balance between sustainability and affordability. We cannot afford to merely react to these challenges; we mustproactively lead the global transition toward sustainable mining practices while ensuring economic competitiveness.”

Addressing the conference, Shri V Suresh, Director (Commercial), NMDC Ltd. remarked, “India’s mining sector is thebackbone of economic progress and will be pivotal in achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047. Sustainable mining, technological

innovation, skill development, policy reforms, and global partnerships will define the future of the industry. Our collectiveefforts will drive a self-reliant and environmentally responsible mining sector.”Addressing the conference, Shri N. Balram, Chairman & Managing Director, SCCL, remarked, “India’s mining industrymust evolve with innovation and sustainable policies to support national progress. Strengthening domestic mining

capabilities is crucial to reducing dependency on imports and fostering economic resilience.”Shri P.K. Satpathy, Former Director (Production), NMDC Ltd., stated, “The role of mining in ensuring India’s industrial and

infrastructure growth cannot be overstated. By integrating advanced technology and responsible resource practices, wecan unlock new opportunities in the critical mining sector as well.”Shri A.K. Shukla, Former CMD, HCL, added, “Future-ready mining involves not only technological enhancements but alsoa strong focus on environmental responsibility and social commitment. We must work towards achieving globalbenchmarks in sustainability.”Shri B. Surender Mohan, Former CMD, NLC India Ltd. Addressed the gathering and congratulated MEAI for takinginitiatives to organise the National Seminar with a very relevant topic and a very right time.The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony recognizing the contributions of key professionals in the mining sector,

acknowledging their role in driving innovation and sustainable practices. On the 2nd day of the event, MEAI HyderabadChapter honored Late S. K. Verma, Former Head of Project of DIOM Complex of NMDC Ltd.; Shri P. K. Satpathy, FormerDirector (Production) of NMDC; Shri A. K. Shukla, Former Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), Hindustan Copper

Limited (HCL) Shri B. Ram Mohan, Former Regional Controller of Mines, Bangalore Region, Indian Bureau of Mines; Shri VBalakoti Reddy, Director BGR Mining & Infra Limited; for their invaluable contributions to the mining industry.

Addressing the gathering on the first day of the event, Shri Joydeep Dasgupta, Director (Production), NMDC Ltd.,emphasized, “The mining industry remains the backbone of national progress, playing a pivotal role in economic

development. The Hyderabad Chapter’s efforts in bringing together industry stalwarts for knowledge exchange arecommendable. At NMDC, we are committed to expanding mining capacity while ensuring eco-friendly and sustainableoperations. Encouraging young talent to join the mining sector is crucial for India’s future growth.”

Dr S K Sinha, Head Mine Planning & Chief of ISO NMDC Ltd. presented the summary report of the National Seminar andfew key takeaways of the National Seminar for Mining in India’s Future are: -

1. Sustainable Mining PracticesOne of the most pressing concerns in the mining sector today is sustainability. As we extract valuable minerals from theearth, we must be equally mindful of the environmental impact. The future of mining must be rooted in practices thatpromote ecological balance and minimize degradation. Implementing cutting-edge technologies, such as automation,artificial intelligence, and data analytics, will help us improve efficiency while reducing waste and energy consumption.We must also prioritize reclamation and rehabilitation of mined lands and ensure that water and air quality standards