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With an aim to drive innovation in automation, cyber-physical systems, and digital transformation in mining, NIT Rourkela has collaborated with IIT (ISM) Dhanbad to establish the FTBI-TEXMiN Mining Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) Center of Excellence.
Supported by the Department of Science and Technology, the CoE was jointly inaugurated by Prof. K. Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela and Prof. Sukumar Mishra, Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad at FTBI, NIT Rourkela. Other dignitaries present during the event included Prof. Manoj Kumar Mishra, President, FTBI and Professor, NIT Rourkela, and Prof. Dheeraj Kumar, Deputy Director, IIT (ISM) Dhanbad and Project Director, TEXMiN, along with faculty members, researchers, and students, at NIT Rourkrla
A key highlight of the newly established CoE will be its focus on developing deep-tech solutions to address critical challenges in mining and allied sectors. As a next step, the center will award projects and fellowships worth Rs. 200 lakhs in the next four years.
Additionally, selected innovators and researchers will also gain access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and mentoring through FTBI at NIT Rourkela.
Speaking on the occasion held on 20th June, 2025, Prof. Umamaheshwar Rao emphasized the significance of digital innovation in modern mining. Prof. Sukumar Mishra highlighted the role of applied research in creating scalable and sustainable technologies. Prof. Manoj Kumar Mishra appreciated the joint efforts of both institutions in establishing a much-needed platform for mining-focused deep-tech innovation. Prof. Dheeraj Kumar also talked about TEXMiN’s commitment to fostering tech-based entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Traditional mining practices suffer from poor safety standards, low productivity, fragmented data systems, and environmental degradation. Manual exploration methods and lack of real-time monitoring further hinder efficiency and regulatory compliance.
The newly inaugurated FTBI–TEXMiN Mining CPS Center of Excellence at NIT Rourkela seeks to address these systemic issues through cutting-edge Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). By integrating IoT, AI, robotics, and data analytics, the Center aims to:
• Enhance miner safety through smart wearables, digital twins, and AI-based risk alerts.
• Improve resource exploration using drones, LiDAR, and geo-intelligence tools.
• Enable automation and remote operations for better productivity and safer working conditions.
• Monitor environmental impact in real time,
• Support digital governance of licenses and mineral logistics via blockchain.
• Promote data-driven decision-making through centralized, AI-powered platforms.
With this innovation and collaboration between academia, startups, and industry, the Center is set to modernize mining operations and build a more sustainable, safe, and efficient mining ecosystem for India.