Agencies HYDERABAD, Feb 18: The Mining Engineers' Association of India (MEAI), Hyderabad Chapter successfully concluded its two-day National Conference on 'Mining the Minerals: Way Forward Towards Atmanirbhar Viksit Bharat 2047'. The event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss the future of India's mining sector, technological advancements, and policy reforms. The valedictory session was presided over by Shri V. Suresh, Director (Commercial), NMDC Ltd., with Shri N. Balram, CMD, SCCL, as the Guest of Honour. Other notable 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. Discussions on the second day covered crucial topics such as the impact of MMDR Act amendments, sustainable mining practices, policy reforms, and technological innovations like AI-driven automation, ammonia beneficiation, and extraction from low-grade ores. Experts highlighted the urgent need for skill development, exploration of critical minerals, and reducing import dependency. Key Takeaways from the Conference: Sustainable Mining Practices - Adoption of AI, automation, and eco-friendly techniques to balance mineral extraction with environmental responsibility. Technological Innovation & Research - Focus on AI, robotics, and new exploration methods to enhance productivity and safety. Skilled Workforce Development - Emphasis on training young professionals to meet future industry demands. Policy Reforms - Streamlining regulations, ensuring transparency, and fostering private sector participation. Global Partnerships & Trade - Strengthening international collaborations to position India as a leader in the mining industry. In his concluding remarks, Shri Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC Ltd. & Chairman, MEAI Hyderabad Chapter, emphasized that India's mining sector will play a crucial role in achieving Viksit Bharat 2047 by driving self-reliance and economic growth. The event also included a felicitation ceremony recognizing industry stalwarts like Late S. K. Verma (Former Head of DIOM Complex, NMDC Ltd.), Shri P. K. Satpathy, Shri A. K. Shukla, Shri B. Ram Mohan, and Shri V. Balakoti Reddy for their contributions to the mining sector. The conference underscored the need for sustainable and technology-driven mining, positioning the sector as a key driver of India's future economic progress. |