New Delhi: Union Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, inaugurated the Ministry of Mines Pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2024 in New Delhi today. The Pavilion, themed “Minerals to Milestones,” highlights the vital role of minerals in building a self-reliant India and achieving national milestones through sustainable and innovative mining practices.
The inauguration ceremony included a ribbon-cutting and traditional lamp-lighting, led by Minister Reddy with Ministry of Mines Secretary V. L. Kantha Rao, Ministry of Coal Secretary Vikram Dev Dutt, and senior ministry officials and industry representatives in attendance.
In his address, Minister Reddy emphasized the mining sector’s importance in India’s growth journey, releasing a film that traces the nation’s mining evolution from historical achievements to modern innovations. The film, celebrating India’s mining journey, underscores the sector’s critical achievements and showcases the country’s progress toward sustainable development.
Reddy toured the Pavilion, visiting stalls by industry leaders such as Hindustan Copper Limited (HCL), National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), Hindalco, Hindustan Zinc, District Mineral Foundations (DMF), Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC), National Institute of Rock Mechanics (NIRM), Geological Survey of India (GSI), and Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL). He explored the cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices these organizations are implementing to advance India’s mining sector.
Adding an interactive experience, the Pavilion featured a virtual underground mine tour, where attendees could take a simulated ride to explore mining operations firsthand. The JNARDDC also showcased recycling initiatives, encouraging visitors to adopt eco-friendly practices in support of the Pavilion’s sustainability mission.
At the DMF stall, Reddy engaged with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) that promote local products and community development. The Minister commended their efforts, highlighting the crucial role of local enterprises and SHGs in empowering communities and contributing to India’s sustainable growth. He stated, “The empowerment of local communities is essential to sustainable development, and SHGs play a significant role in uplifting communities through their dedication and innovation.”
In a press interaction at the Pavilion, Reddy shared insights into India’s mining strategy, emphasizing sustainable practices and government-backed initiatives that support local enterprises. He underscored the government’s commitment to fostering sector growth, aligning with the vision of a “Viksit Bharat 2047” — a developed India by 2047.
The Ministry of Mines Pavilion is open to all IITF 2024 attendees from November 14 to 27, inviting visitors to explore how minerals contribute to national progress and the future of a sustainable India under the theme “Minerals to Milestones.”