Mines Secretary, Shri V.L. Kantha Rao, announced that the Ministry of Mines is actively engaged in the auctioning process of 20 critical mineral blocks, including lithium and graphite, scheduled in the next two weeks. Shri Rao shared this information during his interaction with the media after inaugurating the mining pavilion, “Connecting Beyond Mining,” at the India International Trade Fair 2023 (IITF).
In his virtual message, Union Minister of Coal, Mines, and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Pralhad Joshi, emphasized the pivotal role minerals play in our daily lives. He highlighted their significance not only as raw materials for various industries but also as essential components for energy transition and renewable technologies, crucial for achieving a ‘Net Zero’ commitment.
Minister of State for Coal, Mines, and Railways, Shri Raosaheb Patil Danve, acknowledged the sector’s contribution to India’s journey toward self-reliance. He commended the officials for establishing the pavilion, showcasing the success and opportunities within the mining sector.
The mining pavilion at IITF aims to create awareness about the ongoing reforms in the mining and mineral sector. It features a state-of-the-art setup in Hall No. 5, covering 506 sqm, with key attractions such as Virtual Reality Experiences, a Kids Zone offering interactive games, and workshops on recycling. The initiative seeks to enlighten the public about the crucial role minerals play in daily life, from food production to electricity generation.
As part of the awareness campaign, the pavilion focuses on key issues such as the impact of mining reforms, progress in exploration, auctions, and the resulting increase in revenue to states. The District Mineral Fund (DMF) and its role in the development of mining areas are also highlighted.
The pavilion includes a dedicated Kids Zone and VR Zone to engage children through games and competitions, fostering understanding about mines and mining. Workshops targeting 200 children in various groups will be conducted, accompanied by a Selfie Zone for the general public.
Noteworthy autonomous and subordinate offices under the Ministry of Mines, such as the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM), Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC), National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), and Mineral Exploration & Consultancy Limited (MECL), will showcase their achievements.
Major private sector players, including Hindalco Industries Limited, Hindustan Zinc (a Vedanta Group Company), and JSW Group, will also participate in IITF 2023, highlighting recent innovative reforms in the mining sector.
The first five days of IITF 2023, from November 14 to 18, are exclusively reserved for business days, opening to the general public from November 19 to 27. The fair timings are 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily.