Kolkata : The mining sector is no longer just a support function, but a strategic pillar in India’s pursuit of energy security, infrastructure growth, and clean industrialization, asserted top government officials and industry leaders at the 3rd Edition of the Minerals and Mining Conclave 2025, organised by ASSOCHAM in Kolkata.
Ajay Tewari, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Home, Mines and Minerals, Government of Assam, emphasized the sector’s national significance, stating, “Assam is a mineral-rich state with rare earths and critical minerals. With peace returning after 30 years, areas once inaccessible are now open for development. During the Advantage Assam Investment Summit, 14 MoUs were signed in the mining sector alone.” He underlined that mining will play a crucial role in achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047 and Net Zero by 2070, aligning with India’s balanced growth goals. “We are committed to a sustainable growth path. Thermal power will not be shut down abruptly—we need 75 GW of additional brownfield thermal capacity by 2040 alongside 500 GW of renewables,” he noted.
Asit Saha, Director General, Geological Survey of India (GSI), spoke of intensified exploration for rare earths and metals vital for EVs and clean energy. “50% of GSI’s projects are focused on these minerals, especially in Assam, West Bengal, and the Northeast. While we may not find every mineral domestically, strategic bartering will be necessary,” he said.
Dr. Pukhraj Nenival, Controller of Mines (East Zone), Indian Bureau of Mines, echoed the sentiment, noting the sector’s transformation. “With rising demands due to global electrification and digitalization, mining must evolve into a low-carbon, sustainable industry. Green hydrogen, electric fleets, and renewable-powered operations are the future,” he added.
Sanjiv Ganeriwala, Chairman, Mining Sub Council East, ASSOCHAM, highlighted mining’s significant contribution to India’s economy. “With nearly 10% GDP contribution (direct and indirect), mining is a backbone sector. Critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, vanadium, and rare earths will shape India’s clean energy and digital future,” he said, calling for collective resolve to align India’s mineral roadmap with global energy transitions.
