IIT Kanpur and NMDC Sign MoU to Enhance Cybersecurity and Drive AI/ML Adoption
On December 2, 2025, the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) and NMDC Limited, a Navratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Steel, Government of India, signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to deepen efforts in cybersecurity, information security, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), digital transformation, and next-generation technological applications across NMDC’s IT and operational technology (OT) ecosystems.
Details of the MoU
The MoU was signed by Satyendra Rai, Executive Director (Digital Transformation) at NMDC Limited, and the Dean of Research & Development at IIT Kanpur. The signing ceremony was attended by Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, along with project directors, project leads, and officials from both NMDC and the I-Hub NTIHAC Foundation (C3iHub).
Key Objectives of the Partnership
Under the terms of the MoU, IIT Kanpur’s C3iHub will provide support to NMDC in various critical areas, including:
- Cyber risk assessments
- Vulnerability analysis
- Security governance
- Incident response planning
- Benchmarking of Security Operations Centre (SOC) models
Exploring AI and ML Solutions
The partnership will also focus on exploring AI and ML-driven solutions, which include:
- Development of digital twins
- Predictive maintenance frameworks
- Advanced data analytics
These technologies aim to enhance operational efficiency across NMDC’s mining ecosystem, thereby driving innovation and productivity.
Statements from Leadership
During the MoU signing ceremony, Prof. Manindra Agrawal emphasized the importance of this collaboration. He stated, “At IIT Kanpur, we have a strong research expertise in the domains of cybersecurity and AI, addressing challenges of national interest. I am confident that this collaboration will not only strengthen cyber resilience across NMDC’s operations but also foster the development of transformative technologies in AI, machine learning, and smart industrial systems in mining applications.”
Joint Research and Capacity Building
The collaboration between IIT Kanpur and NMDC is set to include joint research initiatives, capacity-building programs, and technology pilots. Successful proofs-of-concept will be evaluated for scalable deployment, marking a significant step toward enhancing cyber resilience and accelerating digital transformation in India’s mining sector.
Significance of the Collaboration
This MoU represents a landmark agreement that underscores the commitment of both institutions to leverage cutting-edge technology in improving operational frameworks. The integration of AI and ML into NMDC’s operations is expected to yield substantial benefits, including:
- Improved decision-making processes
- Increased safety and security measures
- Enhanced efficiency in mining operations
- Better resource management
Future Prospects
The collaboration is poised to set a precedent for similar partnerships in the public sector, encouraging other organizations to adopt advanced technological solutions. As India continues to evolve in the digital landscape, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in ensuring that the country remains competitive on a global scale.
About IIT Kanpur
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur is one of the premier engineering institutions in India, known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. It has been at the forefront of technological advancements and has made significant contributions to various fields, including cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
About NMDC Limited
NMDC Limited is a state-owned mineral producer, primarily involved in the exploration and production of iron ore. As a Navratna company, it plays a vital role in India’s mining sector and is committed to adopting modern technologies to enhance its operational capabilities.
Conclusion
The signing of this MoU between IIT Kanpur and NMDC Limited marks a pivotal moment in the integration of advanced technologies within the mining sector. By focusing on cybersecurity and AI/ML applications, both institutions aim to not only enhance operational efficiency but also contribute to the broader goal of digital transformation in India.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest available data as of December 2025.
