Singareni Collieries Takes Bold Step into Critical Minerals with New MoU

SCCL Partners with CSIR-IMMT for Mineral Exploration
Bhubaneswar: In a strategic move to broaden its business scope, Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the CSIR–Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) in Bhubaneswar. This partnership aims to enhance collaboration in the exploration and extraction of essential minerals.
The agreement was signed in the presence of Padma Bhushan VK Saraswat, a member of NITI Aayog, and emphasizes joint research initiatives, the application of cutting-edge technology, and sustainable mining practices for the extraction of Rare Earth Elements (REEs).
SCCL's chairman and managing director, N Balram, expressed enthusiasm about the company's venture into critical mineral production, calling this MoU a pivotal moment in their diversification efforts.
He highlighted the presence of REEs in SCCL’s open-cast mines and the fly ash from the Singareni Thermal Power Plant, referencing a Geological Survey of India (GSI) report that identified 266.21 ppm of REEs in the Durgam Gutta Block located near Manuguru.
Balram further stated, "With India focusing on boosting domestic production of critical minerals, SCCL is well-prepared to develop various promising blocks. We are also looking into international partnerships, particularly with Australia." CSIR–IMMT director Ramanuj Narayan noted that this MoU represents a significant step toward achieving national objectives in critical mineral development.
The formal signing of the MoU involved Kali Sanjay, chief scientist and head of the Hydro & Electrometallurgy Division at CSIR–IMMT, S B Srinivas, general manager (Exploration) at SCCL, and V Ramdas, general manager (BD & SP) at SCCL.