Union Minister G Kishan Reddy Inaugurates Centre of Excellence on Critical Minerals, VR Mine Simulator at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad
On December 23, 2025, Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G Kishan Reddy, inaugurated the Centre of Excellence (CoE) under the National Critical Minerals Mission at the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) Dhanbad. This event was part of his two-day visit to Jharkhand, where he also launched the Virtual Reality Mine Simulator (VRMS), a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing mining safety and productivity through advanced technology.
Centre of Excellence (CoE)
The newly inaugurated Centre of Excellence will act as a national anchor for research and industry-scale solutions in critical minerals. Its focus areas include:
- Exploration of critical minerals
- Extraction and processing techniques
- Recycling and reuse of materials
- Waste-to-wealth initiatives
The CoE will collaborate with leading industry players and international academic institutions, such as the University of Cambridge and St Petersburg University. Additionally, it will receive infrastructure and academic support from IIT Gandhinagar, IIT (BHU), and CPI (UK).
Virtual Reality Mine Simulator (VRMS)
The Virtual Reality Mine Simulator, developed by IIT (ISM) Dhanbad in collaboration with Coal India Limited and its subsidiaries, Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) and Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL), is India’s first VR-based mine simulator specifically designed for coal mining. Key features of the VRMS include:
- A 360-degree immersive virtual reality theatre
- Utilization of real mine data
- Over 20 specialized training modules covering heavy equipment operations and critical safety standard operating procedures (SOPs)
The simulator is designed to provide scenario-based assessments and certifications for employees at all levels, from operators to senior management. It is expected to halve training time while significantly improving safety preparedness in the mining sector.
Engagement with Students
During his visit, Minister G Kishan Reddy engaged in an informal interaction with students and young researchers at RD Chowk, a well-known meeting point on the IIT (ISM) campus. Over a cup of tea, the discussion evolved into a candid exchange of ideas, covering topics such as:
- Academic journeys
- Research interests
- Career aspirations
- The role of technology and innovation in mining
The Minister encouraged students to think beyond conventional career paths and to see themselves as contributors to national development and problem-solvers for the mining and energy sectors. He emphasized the importance of indigenous, research-driven solutions in critical minerals, sustainability, and clean energy, asserting that India’s strategic sectors will be shaped by curious, confident, and innovation-driven youth.
The Role of IIT (ISM)
In his address to faculty and students, Reddy highlighted the pivotal role of IIT (ISM) in shaping India’s mining future through knowledge creation, research, and innovation. He stated that the institution serves not only as a premier center for producing skilled mining professionals but also as a cradle of technological vision and innovation for the sector.
Reddy noted that the mining sector is currently undergoing a significant transformation, standing at a historic juncture where technology, critical minerals, sustainability, and national security are collectively advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed a strong push towards IT-led growth, innovation, and research and development (R&D), characterized by:
- Increased national investment in research
- A surge in patent filings
- Rapid expansion of the deep-tech ecosystem
Digital Initiatives in Mining
Reddy also highlighted various digital initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency and safety of the mining sector, including:
- Coal SETU: A platform for real-time monitoring and management.
- Koyla Shakti Dashboard: A tool for data visualization and decision-making.
- Integrated Command & Control Systems: Systems designed to improve operational safety and transparency.
These initiatives leverage information technology to facilitate real-time monitoring, improve efficiency, enhance transparency, and strengthen safety across the mining sector.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the Centre of Excellence on Critical Minerals and the Virtual Reality Mine Simulator at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad marks a significant step forward in India’s mining sector. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and the empowerment of youth, these initiatives are set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of mining in India.
Note: This article is based on information available as of December 2025 and aims to provide an overview of the recent developments in the Indian mining sector.
