Energy security, critical minerals’ acquisition, and use of artificial intelligence (AI) dominate the pavilion by Coal India Limited (CIL) at the ongoing India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, which is being held in the capital city from November 12-27.
The CIL pavilion was inaugurated on Tuesday by India’s coal and mines minister, G Kishan Reddy, also highlighting the government’s coal gasification initiative as a key enabler of India’s transition towards clean coal along with CSR initiatives, said a statement released by the coal ministry.
“CIL’s strategic initiatives to acquire critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt, both domestically and internationally, were also featured. This approach aims to reduce India’s import dependency on these vital resources, supporting the growth of various industries reliant on such minerals,” the statement read.
Besides showcasing the country’s progress in energy security, diversification projects, and sustainable practices, which drew considerable attention from visitors, the pavilion also put forth initiatives to acquire critical minerals in the domestic market and overseas, a significant topic of interest since rare earth metals’ shortage hit the world since China placed curbs on their exports.
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Other highlights of the pavilion included the opencast mining method and the use of artificial intelligence in coal mining that has enhanced operational efficiencies and safety compliances.
Live demonstration of virtual reality (VR) as immersive technology, primarily for the safety and operational training has also been organised in the pavilion.
“VR offers a safe, cost-effective and highly engaging alternative to traditional training methods in a hazardous environment,” the statement said.
The pavilion also showcases eco-tourism initiatives upholding principles of ecological restoration and functioning of Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at headquarters of CIL Subsidiaries.