New Delhi: Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy on Tuesday inaugurated the Coal India Limited (CIL) pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, where the company is showcasing its expanding focus on critical mineral acquisition and advanced mining technologies.
According to the coal ministry, the pavilion highlights Coal India’s strategic initiatives to acquire key critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt, both within India and overseas. “This approach aims to reduce India’s import dependency on these vital resources, supporting the growth of various industries reliant on such minerals,” the ministry said.
Organised from November 14–27 at Pragati Maidan, the IITF pavilion also draws attention to India’s progress in energy security, diversification of coal-based projects and adoption of sustainable mining practices.
CIL is showcasing various technological advancements including opencast mining methods, the integration of artificial intelligence in operations, and the functioning of Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) across its subsidiaries. The ministry said AI-driven systems are helping enhance operational efficiency and safety compliance across mines.
A live demonstration using virtual reality (VR) technology has also been organised to provide immersive safety and operations training. VR offers a “safe, cost-effective and highly engaging alternative to traditional training methods in a hazardous environment,” the statement added.
A significant section of the pavilion underscores the government’s coal gasification mission, a key element of India’s transition toward cleaner coal technologies. The exhibit also features Coal India’s CSR efforts and eco-tourism initiatives focused on ecological restoration.
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