TEXMiN and Geotek (UK) Launch State-of-Art: Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad
New Delhi – In a significant advancement for India’s mineral exploration landscape, the Technology Innovation in Exploration & Mining Foundation (TEXMiN), in collaboration with Geotek Ltd. (UK), inaugurated the TEXMiN–Geotek Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory at the Institute Innovation Hub (i2h) at IIT(ISM) Dhanbad. The facility was formally inaugurated by Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Government of India, in the presence of Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director of IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and Chairman of the Hub Governing Board, TEXMiN Foundation.
A Milestone in Mineral Exploration
This pioneering laboratory represents an important milestone in India’s journey towards technologically enabled, data-driven, and transparent mineral exploration. It aligns directly with the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) and the expanding India–UK innovation partnership.
The establishment of this state-of-the-art laboratory follows a strategic Memorandum of Understanding between TEXMiN and Geotek. Through this collaboration, both organizations aim to introduce globally accredited, non-destructive, multi-sensor geological core analysis technologies in India.
Supporting Various Stakeholders
The laboratory will support exploration agencies, public sector undertakings (PSUs), private mining operators, academic researchers, and startups by providing access to advanced, digitized core logging and analysis infrastructure. By harnessing automated workflows, integrated sensor technologies, and digital datasets, the laboratory will enhance precision, reduce dependency on manual interpretation, and accelerate decision-making in areas essential for India’s future, particularly in critical minerals that power green energy, electric vehicles, defense systems, and advanced manufacturing.
Technological Highlights
A major technological highlight of the laboratory is Geotek’s BoxScan platform, which has been deployed at TEXMiN to enable comprehensive digital scanning of drill cores and chip boxes. BoxScan combines:
- High-resolution photography
- Hyperspectral mineral identification
- Geochemical characterization using portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF)
- Magnetic and structural analysis
- Depth-linked digital output generation
Its field-deployable design, automated calibration systems, and modular architecture allow a single operator to generate multiple geological datasets simultaneously with exceptional accuracy and repeatability. This capability marks a paradigm shift from traditional exploration practices to real-time, high-fidelity subsurface intelligence that can be used for predictive modeling, resource classification, and exploration automation.
Statements from Key Figures
Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director of IIT(ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director of TEXMiN Foundation, stated: “India is entering a defining phase in the critical minerals landscape, and strengthening our exploration capability is central to this shift. Through this laboratory, we are not just enabling access to high-quality geological intelligence—we are advancing towards data-backed certainty, faster discovery cycles, and globally competitive innovation born in India. This initiative will support our energy ambitions, strategic industries, and the future of mineral research in the country.”
Mr. Tom White, Managing Director of Geotek Ltd. (UK), emphasized the global significance of the partnership. He observed, “For over two decades, Geotek has helped explorers across the world unlock geological value. Our partnership with TEXMiN brings world-class core digitization to India, enabling faster decisions, reduced risks, and a new standard of exploration excellence. BoxScan at IIT(ISM) is not just equipment; it represents a transformation in how India understands and utilizes its mineral wealth.”
Dr. Andrew Fleming, British Deputy High Commissioner to East and Northeast India, highlighted the broader diplomatic and technological implications. He remarked, “This collaboration embodies the spirit of the India–UK science and technology partnership. Critical minerals are foundational to future economies, and this initiative reinforces our shared commitment to innovation-led, secure, and sustainable mineral supply chains.”
Significance of the Laboratory
The inauguration of the TEXMiN–Geotek Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory positions India among the leading nations leveraging digital geology for strategic minerals. It reinforces TEXMiN’s role as a national hub for Mining 4.0 transformation and strengthens India’s preparedness for the material demands of the global clean energy transition.
As critical minerals increasingly define geopolitical and industrial futures, this initiative provides India with the scientific infrastructure and technological foresight required to secure its strategic autonomy.
Conclusion
The launch of the TEXMiN–Geotek Drill Core Digitisation Laboratory is a landmark achievement for India’s mineral exploration sector. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering international collaboration, India is poised to enhance its capabilities in the critical minerals landscape, ensuring sustainable development and strategic growth in the years to come.
Note: This article is based on information available up to October 2023 and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the recent developments in mineral exploration technology in India.
