Rising Rajasthan Summit Features Session on Eco-Friendly Mining Techniques
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Jaipur, Dec 9 (NationPress) A dedicated session focusing on sustainable mining took place on Monday at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) in Sitapura, coinciding with the first day of the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024.
The session, named 'Sustainable Mining: Safeguarding the Future,' gathered prominent experts and policymakers to explore the latest developments and challenges in resource conservation, decarbonisation, and the implementation of eco-friendly practices. Key discussions revolved around the impact of AI-driven innovations and renewable energy in reshaping the mining industry.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma underscored the significance of the mining sector in the state, stating: "Our mining industry currently employs around 35 lakh individuals. We have also introduced a new M-Sand policy that is environmentally sustainable and provides an alternative to high-quality construction materials. This policy eliminates previous barriers such as the three-year experience requirement and a three-crore turnover condition for setting up units."
"To assist these units, we have implemented provisions for benefits under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme 2024."
Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy reaffirmed the Government of India's dedication to self-sufficiency in mineral resources, stating: "Achieving self-reliance in minerals is a core objective of Vision 2047. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, transformative reforms in the minerals sector have enhanced production and empowered states to reach their full potential."
Kishan Reddy commended Rajasthan's leadership in mineral extraction and technology, stating: "Rajasthan is a crucial contributor to India's mineral security, producing 52 out of 82 commercial minerals. It is the exclusive producer of essential minerals like zinc and silver, highlighting its national significance."
He also praised Rajasthan's forward-thinking Minerals Policy 2024, which aims to explore critical minerals and simplify the auction process, saying: "This progressive policy will enhance resource security and encourage sustainable exploration, aligning with India’s vision for a self-reliant, resource-secure future."
T. Ravikanth, Principal Secretary, Mines & Petroleum, government of Rajasthan, shared the state's commitment to sustainable mining through initiatives like the Sand Policy 2024, Star Rating for Minor Minerals, and incentives for recovering metals from mining tailings.
The session emphasized cutting-edge technologies and practices that reduce mining's ecological footprint, with panelists discussing AI-driven predictive analytics, autonomous mining trucks, renewable energy integration, and mineral waste recycling. Topics also included decarbonisation initiatives, resource conservation, and sustainable social infrastructure development.
Notable attendees included Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc Ltd. & Executive Director at Vedanta Ltd.; Dr. Ranjit Rath, Chairman & Managing Director of Oil India Ltd.; David Joseph Finn, GM, Head of HZL GEOTECH Mining Operations; Andrew Hall, Director/CEO of Australian Mining Consultants; and Akshaydeep Mathur, Secretary General of the Federation of Mining Associations of Rajasthan.
