Guv pitches green tech-driven mining at IIT (ISM)'s industry institute interaction 2026

Dhanbad: Emphasising sustainable mining practices and indigenous innovation, Jharkhand governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Friday said that critical minerals, green energy and smart mining technologies would shape India’s journey towards Atmanirbhar Bharat.Inaugurating the two-day Industry–Institute Interaction–2026 (III–2026) at IIT (ISM) Dhanbad, the governor described the conclave as a timely convergence of academia, industry and policymakers at a crucial phase for the country’s resource security and energy transition.He noted that IIT (ISM), which completed 100 years of excellence in mining, geology and energy education, played a pivotal role in India’s industrial growth.Highlighting Jharkhand’s vast reserves of coal, iron ore, bauxite and other minerals, Gangwar said the state remains central to strengthening the nation’s infrastructure and energy backbone. However, he underlined that mining activities must be environmentally responsible and socially inclusive.