Gandhinagar, Jan 9 (NationPress) The Union Minister for Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, characterized the mining industry as a “cornerstone of economic progress” that will be instrumental in realizing the vision of a developed India by 2047.

Speaking at the National Mineral Chintan Shivir in Gujarat, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Reddy highlighted the significance of the event.

This three-day conference, organized by the Union Ministry of Mines, unites mining ministers from various states, senior officials, and industry stakeholders to discuss reforms, technological advancements, sustainability, and future policy frameworks for the sector.

On this occasion, Minister Reddy commended Gujarat’s development model, stating it has established benchmark standards for several states, which are now competing in terms of investment and growth.

The Union Minister pointed out that mineral exploration has experienced a 190% increase since 2014, with significant growth in iron, limestone, lead, and zinc.

He mentioned that transparent auctions and the District Mineral Foundation mechanism have greatly enhanced mining revenue for various states.

Reddy emphasized that the government is focusing on critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and tungsten, as well as refining, recycling, and reprocessing capabilities. Plans are already in place to extract critical minerals from e-waste by 2030.

The core aim of the Chintan Shivir is to formulate a strategic five-year plan for the sector, emphasizing faster auctions, improved operations, next-generation technology adoption, digitalization, research and development, skill enhancement, and establishing India as a global processing hub. He also highlighted the importance of “urban mining” and waste-to-wealth programs for environmental sustainability.

Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil noted that fulfilling the Viksit Bharat@2047 vision demands robust coordination between mineral development and water management. Referring to mineral resources as the “backbone of the economy”, he stressed the need for responsible mining practices that safeguard groundwater and promote water recycling and reuse. He urged the industry to adopt technologies that minimize environmental impact.

Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, mentioned that 2026 will be pivotal for enhancing the mining sector’s contribution to India’s development objectives. He underscored the importance of critical minerals for battery production and energy storage, while also pointing out the government’s initiatives to speed up auctions and production.

He added that artificial intelligence and modern equipment will be crucial for enhancing efficiency, diminishing pollution, and cutting costs.

Dubey also highlighted the collective responsibility of the government and private sector to ensure environmentally responsible mining and address ecological loss. The welcome address was delivered earlier by Mines Secretary Piyush Goyal.

The event saw participation from ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Nagaland, along with senior officials from the Union Coal and Mines Ministry and the Gujarat government, including Industries and Mines Additional Chief Secretary Mamta Verma.