The Business Bytes
BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 10, 2024 (TBB BUREAU): In a significant move towards bolstering India’s mineral security and technological prowess, Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT) for Technical and Knowledge cooperation on Critical Minerals.
The MoU was signed by Sadashiv Samantaray, Director (Commercial) of NALCO & CEO of KABIL, and Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT, in the presence of Sridhar Patra, CMD of NALCO & Chairman of KABIL, at NALCO Corporate Office in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday.
Under the MoU, KABIL will leverage the technical expertise and services of CSIR-IMMT to undertake various projects, including the design and analysis of metallurgical test work-plans, development and review of process flow sheets, and the selection of process technologies for mineral processing, beneficiation, and metal extraction. Furthermore, the agreement will also embark on joint research and facilitate the exchange of scientific information between the two entities.
Expressing his happiness over the partnership, NALCO CMD Sridhar Patra highlighted its significance in fostering a conducive environment for the exploration of critical minerals. “Advancing scientific research and technology development in the mineral and metallurgical sectors are essential to the growth and sustainability of the Indian mining industry and ultimately will play a pivotal role in meeting mineral security of the nation as well as domestic requirements,” said Patra.
KABIL, a joint venture comprising National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Limited (MECL), operates under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Mines. With a mandate to ensure supply-side assurance and mineral security of the nation, KABIL plays a crucial role in supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative through the identification, exploration, acquisition, development, mining, processing, and procurement of critical and strategic minerals.
