Call for Proposals under the Science and Technology Programme of the Ministry of Mines

On 5 May 2025, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued a circular inviting higher education institutions to submit research proposals under the Science and Technology (S&T) Programme of the Ministry of Mines. This initiative aims to foster innovation and research in the mining, mineral processing, metallurgy, and recycling sectors.

Overview of the S&T Programme

The S&T Programme comprises three key components:

1. Research and Development (R&D) Component: This component provides financial assistance to academic institutions, universities, national institutes, and R&D institutions recognized by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India. The focus is on research projects that address challenges in the mining and mineral sectors, with an emphasis on sustainability and technological advancement.
2. Information Education and Communication (IEC) Component: Under this component, funds are allocated to industry associations and recognized academic and research bodies with at least three years of experience in the mining and mineral sector. The objective is to organize promotional events that disseminate knowledge and raise awareness about advancements in the field.
3. Promotion of Research and Innovation in Startups and MSMEs (S&T-PRISM): This component supports startups and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) engaged in mining, mineral processing, metallurgy, and recycling. The aim is to bridge the gap between research and commercialization, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector.

Areas of Focus

Proposals are invited in the following areas:

1. Mineral Exploration: Development of new technologies for mineral exploration, including the use of geoscience data and remote sensing techniques.
2. Mining Methods: Research in rock mechanics, mine design, and mining equipment to improve efficiency and safety.
3. Metallurgy and Mineral Beneficiation: Techniques to utilize lower-grade ores and enhance recovery processes.
4. Waste Management: Extraction of value-added products from mine waste and plant tailings.
5. Green Technologies: Development of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly processing systems.
6. Circular Economy: Research on recycling and reuse of materials in the mining and metallurgy sectors.
   Funds for Companies

Submission Process

Interested institutions are required to submit their proposals online through the SATYABHAMA Portal (research.mines.gov.in). The proposals will undergo a three-tier evaluation process:

1. Scrutiny Committee: Initial review to ensure compliance with guidelines.
2. Project Evaluation and Review Committee (PERC): Detailed assessment of the scientific and technical merit of the proposals.
3. Standing Scientific Advisory Group (SSAG): Final approval based on recommendations from PERC.

Importance for Higher Education Institutions

This initiative presents a significant opportunity for universities and research institutions to engage in cutting-edge research that addresses real-world challenges in the mining and mineral sectors. By participating, institutions can contribute to the development of sustainable technologies and practices, aligning with national priorities for economic growth and environmental stewardship.

The UGC’s call underscores the importance of academia-industry collaboration in driving innovation and research excellence. Institutions are encouraged to disseminate this information widely and encourage faculty and researchers to participate in this national endeavour.