G. Kishan Reddy Calls for Accelerated Exploration of Critical Minerals at NMEDT Governing Body Meeting
G. Kishan Reddy chaired the 7th Governing Body meeting of the National Mineral Exploration & Development Trust (NMEDT), held at GPOA-3, Netaji Nagar, New Delhi, in the august presence of Minister of State for the Department of Atomic Energy, Dr. Jitendra Singh the performance of NMEDT for FY 2025–26 was reviewed in detail.
G. Kishan Reddy chaired the 7th Governing Body meeting of the National Mineral Exploration & Development Trust (NMEDT), held at GPOA-3, Netaji Nagar, New Delhi, in the august presence of Minister of State for the Department of Atomic Energy, Dr. Jitendra Singh the performance of NMEDT for FY 2025–26 was reviewed in detail.
G. Kishan Reddy emphasized that NMEDT must place a major strategic focus on exploration of critical minerals, as achieving Aatmanirbharta in this sector is essential for India’s economic growth, energy transition and technological advancement. He directed all States to expedite ongoing exploration projects, ensure faster approvals and improve coordination so that exploration-to-auction timelines are significantly reduced.
He further highlighted the need to adopt advanced technologies, including AI/ML, drone-based surveys and modern beneficiation techniques, to enhance efficiency and success rates in mineral discovery. The Minister also stressed on greater inclusion of startups, private exploration agencies (NPEAs) and innovation-driven institutions, in line with the vision of Startup India, to bring new ideas and cutting-edge solutions into the exploration ecosystem.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for the Department of Atomic Energy underscored the importance of strong coordination, continuous monitoring and effective follow-up mechanisms to ensure timely execution of exploration projects. He emphasized the need to integrate scientific institutions, and leverage advanced technologies into the mineral exploration value chain to accelerate outcomes.
