Gandhinagar became the focal point for India's mining sector's future as Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, jointly inaugurated the Rashtriya Khanij Chintan Shibir on Friday. This significant two-day national deliberation aims to chart a course for sustainable mineral development and enhanced operational efficiency, directly contributing to the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Focus on Collaboration and Sustainable Practices
The conclave saw active participation from mines ministers of various states and senior officials from central and state departments. The primary agenda revolved around tackling core challenges in the sector. Participants presented detailed insights on project implementation hurdles, improving inter-departmental coordination, and addressing state-specific issues.
An official statement noted that these presentations went beyond identifying problems. They offered practical solutions and showcased best practices from across the country. The forum successfully set the stage for collaborative discussions between the Centre and the states, aiming to significantly strengthen governance and operational efficiency within the mining industry.
Reviewing Projects and Sharing Technical Expertise
The first day's sessions were action-oriented, involving a thorough review of ongoing mining projects. A key highlight was the sharing of technical learnings and innovative approaches among experts. The discussions deeply explored methods for sustainable resource utilisation, ensuring that mineral extraction aligns with long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
Day Two to Spotlight Critical Minerals
The second day of the Shibir is set to delve into a strategically vital area: the National Critical Mineral Mission. This initiative is pivotal for India's economic and technological future. The focus will be on:
- Identifying and assessing deposits of critical minerals within the country.
- Promoting exploration and processing of these resources.
- Strategically utilising them to drive domestic manufacturing, renewable energy sectors, and overall economic growth.
This national think-tank in Gandhinagar underscores the government's concerted push to transform the mining sector into a well-coordinated, efficient, and future-ready engine for national development.
