At FICCI conference, Union Minister highlights private-sector R&D, deep-tech innovation and technology integration as key drivers of industrial transformation
GTNS , SEPTEMBER 17, 2026, NEW DELHI — India’s mining and metals industry is entering a technology-driven phase in which artificial intelligence, automation and advanced digital systems are expected to play a growing role in improving industrial capabilities, Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh said while addressing the third FICCI conference on digitalisation and technology integration in the sector.
Speaking at the conference focused on Digitalization, AI, Automation and Technology Integration in Mining & Metals, the minister highlighted the need for stronger research and development links between industry and the private sector.
A major focus of his address was the government’s ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme, which he said could create new opportunities for private-sector research and accelerate the development of deep technologies.
FROM TRADITIONAL MINING TO SMART INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS
The growing use of AI and automation is changing how industrial operations are monitored, managed and optimised. In mining and metals, digital technologies can support areas ranging from operational planning and equipment monitoring to safety and resource management.
The FICCI conference provided a platform for industry representatives and technology stakeholders to discuss how these technologies can be integrated into an industry that remains central to India’s manufacturing and infrastructure requirements.
PRIVATE R&D TAKES CENTRE STAGE
Dr Singh’s emphasis on the RDI scheme places private-sector innovation at the heart of India’s broader technology strategy.
The scheme is intended to support research and innovation in areas requiring substantial investment and long development cycles, creating opportunities for companies and research institutions to work on emerging technologies.
For the mining and metals sector, greater private participation in R&D could help connect industrial requirements with indigenous technological solutions and deep-tech development.
TECHNOLOGY AS A COMPETITIVENESS DRIVER
The conference also underlined the expanding intersection between mining, metals, digital infrastructure and advanced engineering.
As industrial companies increasingly adopt automated systems and data-driven decision-making, the ability to develop and deploy new technologies is becoming an important component of competitiveness.
The discussions in New Delhi therefore placed the mining and metals sector within a wider transformation taking place across Indian industry — one where AI, automation, research and technology integration are increasingly becoming part of the production ecosystem rather than standalone innovations.