Shri Vivek Kumar Bajpai, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Mines, presented the framework of the National Critical Mineral Mission, highlighting initiatives for identifying critical minerals, exploration and auctioning strategies, and strengthening domestic mining and processing capacities. The mission aims to promote value addition and resilient supply chains in collaboration with industry and research institutions.
Innovations in Mineral Recovery and Circular Mining
Shri Pankaj Kulshrestha, Controller General of the Indian Bureau of Mines, emphasized recovery of critical minerals from waste dumps and tailings. By leveraging advanced technologies and secondary resources, the initiative seeks to improve mineral availability while promoting circular and environmentally responsible mining practices.
Role of States and Modernization Initiatives
Punjab Mining Minister Shri Barinder Kumar Goyal highlighted the progress of the State’s mining sector and stressed adoption of modern technologies and sustainable practices. Union Minister for Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy underlined the importance of robust mine closure planning, effective use of District Mineral Foundation funds, and timely auctioning of mineral blocks to enhance inclusive growth.
Cooperative Federalism and Sectoral Reforms
The conference was attended by key dignitaries including Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Patel, Union Ministers Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Shri C. R. Patil, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Deputy CM of Bihar Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha, along with Ministers and senior officers from eight States. The deliberations underscored cooperative federalism in advancing mining sector reforms, sustainable resource management, and alignment with the objectives of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Future Outlook
The Rashtriya Khanij Chintan Shivir has laid a roadmap for strengthening India’s mining sector by integrating technology, sustainable practices, and policy reforms. These measures aim to secure critical mineral requirements domestically while promoting responsible mining, value addition, and long-term economic growth.