Strategic Minerals and Indigenous Tech Highlighted in Industry‑Research Dialogue

During a high‑level discussion at the sixth RISE Conclave, Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh spotlighted the role of indigenous technology development for critical minerals. Industry leaders presented challenges related to rare‑earth extraction, permanent magnet fabrication, and recycling of strategic metals such as vanadium and titanium.

The minister stressed that early engagement of commercial partners provides vital data on market size, product design specifications, sustainability targets and supply‑chain logistics. This information, he argued, is essential for converting laboratory breakthroughs into commercially viable products.

Representatives from the private sector sought support from CSIR laboratories to upscale technologies for rare‑earth recovery and lithium beneficiation, citing the eastern Indian region as a promising zone for resource exploration. Singh urged research institutes to make the most of their expanding capabilities and to co‑create solutions that address specific industrial pain points.

In addition to mineral technologies, conversations included space‑related optical components, with the minister indicating that any sector‑specific queries could be routed to the Department of Space for further consideration.