Dr Jitendra lays foundation of 'Marine Biomanufacturing' facility in Bhubaneswar
Jul 17, 2025
BHUBANESWAR: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh today laid the foundation stone for joint Marine Biomanufacturing facility set up in collaboration with DBT-ILS, linking biotechnology with the institute's marine mineral research.
The Minister also inaugurated a string of facilities during his visit here, including the PMN Phase II, a vertical shaft pilot plant, and a Sustainable Recycling Centre. He also laid the foundation stone for joint marine biomanufacturing facilities set up in collaboration with DBT-ILS, linking biotechnology with the institute's marine mineral research. These initiatives, he said, reflect the Modi government's integrated science approach-"whole of science and whole of nation."
Dr Jitendra Singh underlined the pivotal role of India's mining and mineral sector in achieving the vision of a self-reliant and technologically advanced nation, while inaugurating key research and pilot-scale facilities at CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (IMMT) in Bhubaneswar.
Addressing scientists, technologists and scholars at the premier institute, the Minister lauded CSIR-IMMT's contributions to resource beneficiation, indigenous technology development, and sustainable mining. He emphasized that such scientific endeavours are essential to the realisation of "Viksit Bharat 2047" and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
"Self-reliance is not possible without a strong mining and mineral sector, as these are important pillars of our economy," Dr. Jitendra Singh said, quoting the Prime Minister. "This institute is uniquely placed, both geographically and in terms of expertise, to drive innovation in critical minerals and sustainable material development."
CSIR-IMMT, established in 1964, has developed knowledge bases on 41 elements from the periodic table and pioneered technologies for the beneficiation and extraction of various metals, including iron ore, ferrochrome, copper, cobalt, and nickel. The Minister took note of the institute's work on utilizing industrial waste-such as red mud, fly ash, and phospho-gypsum-and developing indigenous equipment like flotation columns and screw scrubbers now in the industrial sector.
A key highlight was the upcoming critical mineral pilot plant for platinum group metals, being developed in partnership with the Odisha Mining Corporation. Dr. Jitendra Singh described it as a significant milestone under the National Critical Minerals Mission announced in this year's Union Budget.
The Minister also stressed the importance of making scientific output more visible and accessible. Citing examples of successful indigenous technologies like Terafil water filters and metal craft innovations, he urged for greater industry linkages and outreach to young citizens. "Many CSIR breakthroughs remain unknown even to stakeholders. We need to take science beyond labs and into public consciousness," he remarked.
Referring to the deep ocean mission and India's 11,000 km coastline, Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed out that Odisha is strategically positioned to benefit from and contribute to marine-based research, alternative energy resources, and materials innovation. He reiterated the need for synergy between ministries, scientific institutions, and industry partners and noted that the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) will act as a central coordination platform.
Touching upon traditional knowledge systems, Dr. Jitendra Singh advocated for integrating India's ancient engineering wisdom with modern research. Citing the cyclone-resilient architecture of the Konark Sun Temple, he noted how traditional design could offer lessons for contemporary challenges like climate resilience.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister encouraged the scientific community to work with a forward-looking plan and revise objectives every four years to stay aligned with the fast-evolving technological landscape. "Let us plan for 2047 with a vision for 2027. The pace of innovation demands it," he said.
The visit also saw the release of 16 research publications authored by the institute's scientists, and an exhibition showcasing CSIR-IMMT's technological achievements.
With Odisha's vast mineral reserves and CSIR-IMMT's growing capabilities, the Minister expressed confidence that the state would emerge as a crucial player in India's development story over the coming decades.
