Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 11 October 2024
In a significant move to boost innovation in the mineral sector, the Ministry of Mines, Government of India, has expanded its Science and Technology (S&T) program by launching the *Promotion of Research and Innovation in Startups and MSMEs in Mining, Mineral Processing, Metallurgy, and Recycling Sector* (S&T-PRISM). This initiative aims to foster research and development (R&D) in key areas of the mineral industry, with a particular focus on startups, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and individual innovators.
Recognizing the importance of safety, efficiency, and economic viability in extracting mineral resources and converting them into useful alloys and metals, the National Mineral Policy has placed a high priority on R&D. Through its S&T program, the Ministry has been actively funding grant-in-aid projects at various research institutions across India.
With the introduction of S&T-PRISM, the Ministry aims to encourage innovative research that addresses applied and sustainable aspects of mining and industrial processes. This new initiative is expected to drive advancements in mineral processing and metallurgy, while also promoting recycling practices, a growing concern in today’s industrial landscape.
Startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been specifically encouraged to submit project proposals under the S&T-PRISM program. The Ministry is calling for innovative ideas that could revolutionize the sector and contribute to India’s growing focus on sustainable industrial practices.
Interested parties are invited to participate and submit their project proposals. For further announcements and detailed information, applicants can visit the Ministry of Mines’ ‘Satyabhama’ portal.
This initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting research and innovation in the mining sector, ensuring a safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable approach to mineral resource management.